THE BLESSING OF DAILY STUDY

"God designed the Bible to be a lesson book to all mankind, in childhood,

youth, and manhood, and to be studied through all time. He gave His word

to men as a revelation of Himself. . . . It is the medium of communication

between God and man."—The

Great Controversy,

page 69.

"The Bible contains all the principles that men need to understand in

order to be fitted either for this life or for the life to come. And these princi-

ples may be understood by all. . . . But the most valuable teaching of the

Bible is not to be gained by occasional or disconnected study. Its great system

of truth is not so presented as to be discerned by the hasty or careless reader.

. . . The truths that go to make up the great whole must be searched out

and gathered up, 'here a little, and there a little.' Isaiah

28:10."—Education,

page 123.

My Daily Lesson Study Pledge

As one who greatly desires to improve his knowledge of the Scriptures,

I pledge myself to the careful and prayerful study of some portion of my

Sabbath school lesson each day of the week.

Name



LESSON TITLES FOR THE QUARTER

T. Youth in the Home and in the

Church.

A Study in Character Contrasts

(Cain and Abel, Samuel and the

sons of Eli, Absalom and Josiah)

Triumph in the Supreme Test

(Isaac)

The Young Woman Who Became

the Mother of Two Nations (Re-

bekah)

The Youthful Dreamer (Joseph)

A Youth Chosen for Great Leader-

ship (Moses)

The Youth Who Wanted His Own

Way (Samson)

The Unforgettable Friendship (Da-

vid and Jonathan)

The Youth Who Dared to Be Dif-

ferent (Daniel)

io. From Persecutor to Apostle (Paul)

II. The Prodigal and His Brother

12.

A Youth Who Fulfilled His Mis-

sion (John the Baptist)

13.

The Youth Who Redeemed the

World

Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 266, October-December, 1961. 20 cents a single copy, 75 cents

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Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly

CHARACTER STUDIES OF BIBLE YOUTH

General Introduction

"In order that the work may go forward

in all its branches, God calls for youthful

vigor, zeal, and courage. He has chosen the

youth to aid in the advancement of His

cause. To plan with clear mind and execute

with courageous hand demands fresh, un-

crippled energies. Young men and women

are invited to give God the strength of

their youth, that through the exercise of

their powers, through keen thought and

vigorous action, they may bring glory to

Him and salvation to their fellow men."—

Messages to Young People,

page 20.

As we study the Sabbath school lessons

for this quarter, it is well to keep in mind

the clear statement of God's last-day mes-

senger: "As an educator no part of the

Bible is of greater value than are its biog-

raphies."—Education, page 146.

The first lesson of this series serves as an

introduction, to point up the importance of

the youth of the church.

Lesson 1, for October 7, 1961

Youth in the Home and in the Church

MEMORY VERSE:

"Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the

believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity."

1 Timothy 4:12.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Desire of Ages," pages 437-442, 511-517; "The Adventist

Home," pages 181-199; "Messages to Young People," pages 331-338; "The

Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on lesson texts; the "Seventh-day

Adventist Bible Dictionary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Sunday: Questions 1-4.



❑

Monday: Questions 5-7; begin

reading Study Helps.



❑

Tuesday: Questions 8-10.

Check Here

Wednesday: Questions 11, 12;

read from Study Helps.

Thursday: Read further from Study

Helps.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Training of the Youth

Children, a heritage of the Lord.

Ps. 127:3.

Counsel and promise. Prov. 22;6.

Responsibility of fathers. Eph. 6:4.

Bishops to have their children under

control. 1 Tim. 3:4, 5, 12.

II. Instruction to the Youth

Honor to parents. Ex. 20:12.

Obedience enjoined. Eph. 6:1-3.

God's appeal to youth. Eccl. 12:1;

Prov. 3:1-6; 4:20-27; 23:6.

[

III. Care for the Youth

Jesus' love for children.

Mark 10:13-16

The greatest in the kingdom of

heaven. Matt. 18:1-6.

10.

"Feed My lambs." John 21:15.

IV. The Work of the Youth

11.

To be an example. 1 Tim. 4:12.

12.

To testify under the Holy Spirit.

Joel 2:28, 29.

THE

Introduction

"God has appointed the church as a

watchman, to have a jealous care over the

youth and children, and as a sentinel to see

the approach of the enemy and give warn-

ing of danger. But the church does not real-

ize the situation. She is sleeping on guard.

In this time of peril, fathers and mothers

must arouse and work as for life, or many

of the youth will be forever lost. . . .

"Both parents and teachers, by precept

and example, are so to instill the principles

of truth and honesty into the minds and

hearts of the young that they will become

men and women who are as true as steel to

God and His

cause."—Counsels to Parents,

Teachers, and Students,

page 165.

It is the responsibility of the whole

church, not only of parents and teachers,

to take an interest in the children and

youth and to help provide for their Chris-

tian training and education.

LESSON

joins is to direct, educate, develop. But in

order for parents to do this work, they

must themselves understand the 'way' the

child should go. It is impossible for parents

to give their children proper training unless

they first give themselves to God, learning

of the Great Teacher lessons of obedience

to His

will."—Counsels to Parents, Teach-

ers, and Students,

page 108.

"Children are sometimes tempted to

chafe under restraint; but in afterlife they

will bless their parents for the faithful

care and strict watchfulness that guarded

and guided them in their years of inexperi-

ence."—Ibid., p. 161.

3. How does the apostle Paul in-

dicate the responsibility of fathers in

the training of their children? Eph.

6:4.

Training of the Youth

What does the Bible declare

children to be? Ps. 127:3, first part.

•

NoTE.—"Children are a heritage from the

Lord, and they are to be trained for His

service. This is the work that rests upon

parents and teachers with solemn, sacred

force, which they cannot evade or ignore."

—Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Stu-

dents,

page 143.

What counsel and promise does

the wise man combine in his instruc-

tion to those responsible for the train-

ing of youth? Prov. 22:6.

NOTE.—"Children may be trained for the

service of sin or for the service of righteous-

ness. . . . The training that Solomon en-

NoTE.—"Like the patriarchs of old, those

who profess to love God should erect an

altar to the Lord wherever they pitch their

tent. If ever there was a time when every

house should be a house of prayer, it is now.

Fathers and mothers should often lift up

their hearts to God in humble supplication

for themselves and their children. Let the

father, as priest of the household, lay upon

the altar of God the morning and evening

sacrifice, while the wife and children unite

in prayer and praise. In such a household,

Jesus will love to

tarry."—Messages to

Young People,

page 325.

4. What qualification with respect

to family training must bishops and

deacons possess? 1 Tim. 3:4, 5, 12.

NOTE.—"A well-ordered Christian house-

hold is a powerful argument in favor of the

reality of the Christian religion,—an argu-

[ 4 ]

ment that the infidel cannot gainsay.

All

can

see that there is an influence at work in

the family that affects the children, and

that the God of Abraham is with them."—

Messages to Young People,

page 325.

If you are too busy to study

your lesson daily you are too

busy.

—Adapted

Instruction to the Youth

What is the children's responsi-

bility toward their parents? Ex. 20:12.

NoTE.—"Children and youth, in your

earliest years you may be a blessing in the

home. What a grief it is to see children of

God-fearing parents unruly and disobedient,

unthankful and self-willed, full of determi-

nation to have their own way, regardless of

the inconvenience or sorrow it causes their

parents."—Messages to Young People,

page

333.

What admonition does the apos-

tle Paul give to children? Eph. 6:1-3.

NoTE.—"Children who dishonor and dis-

obey their parents, and disregard their

advice and instructions, can have no part

in the earth made new. The purified new

earth will be no place for the rebellious,

the disobedient, the ungrateful, son or

daughter. Unless such learn obedience and

submission here, they will never learn it;

the peace of the ransomed will not be

marred by disobedient, unruly, unsubmis-

sive children. No commandment breaker

can inherit the kingdom of heaven."—

Testimonies, vol. 1,

pp. 497, 498.

In what words did Solomon

appeal to young people to give their

hearts and lives to God? Eccl. 12:1;

Prov. 3:1-6; 4:20-27; 23:26.

Care for the Youth

How did Jesus demonstrate His

love for children? Mark 10:13-16.

NoTE.—"When Jesus told the disciples

not to forbid the children to come to Him,

He was speaking to His followers in all

ages,—to officers of the church, to ministers,

helpers, and all Christians. Jesus is drawing

the children, and He bids us, Suffer them

to come; as if He would say, They will

come if you do not hinder them. . . .

"The Christian worker may be Christ's

agent in drawing these children to the Sav-

iour. By wisdom and tact he may bind

them to his heart, he may give them cour-

age and hope, and through the grace of

Christ may see them transformed in char-

acter, so that of them it may be said, 'Of

such is the kingdom of God.'

"—The De-

sire of Ages,

page 517.

Of what does true greatness con-

sist? Matt. 18:1-6.

NoTE.—"The simplicity, the self-forget-

fulness, and the confiding love of a little

child are the attributes that Heaven values.

These are the characteristics of real great-

ness."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 437.

10.

When commissioning Peter as

a shepherd of the flock, whom did

Christ first commend to his care? John

21:15.

NorE.—"The first work that Christ en-

trusted to Peter on restoring him to the

ministry was to feed the lambs. This was

a work in which Peter had little experience.

It would require great care and tenderness,

much patience and perseverance. It called

him to minister to those who were young

in the faith, to teach the ignorant, to open

the Scriptures to them, and to educate them

for usefulness in Christ's service. Hereto-

fore Peter had not been fitted to do this,

or even to understand its importance. But

this was the work which Jesus now called

upon him to do. For this work his own

experience of suffering and repentance had

prepared

him."—The Desire of Ages,

page

812.

The Work of the Youth

11.

What influence may Christian

youth have in the church? 1 Tim.

4:12.

Nom.—"Example of the believers.

That

is, a model of what every genuine Christian

should be like. Compare Titus 2:7. The

phrase may be rendered 'an example to the

believers,' that is, a model of conduct to

be imitated by those who believe."—The

Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,

on 1 Tim. 4:12.

"In our Sabbath schools the Christian

youth should be entrusted with respon-

sibilities, that they may develop their abili-

ties and gain spiritual power. . . . This

work will bring their faculties into exercise

and enable them to learn how to plan and

and how to execute their plans for the

good of their associates."—Counsels

on Sab-

bath School Work,

page 62.

12.

How were young people in-

cluded in a prophecy about the out-

pouring of the Holy Spirit? Joel 2:28,

29. Compare Acts 2:17.

NOTE.

"Upon all flesh.

This thought is

further emphasized by the enumeration of

the various age groups that would share

the spiritual blessing. . . . The context

makes clear that more than the reception

of the Spirit, such as accompanies conver-

sion and works transformation of life, is

here spoken of. This special pouring out of

the Spirit results in the display of super-

natural gifts, such as prophesying. . . .

"The events of Pentecost were but a

partial fulfillment of Joel's prediction. The

prophecy is to 'reach its full accomplish-

ment in the manifestation of divine grace

which will attend the closing work of the

gospel' (GC

ix)."—The Seventh-day Ad-

ventist Bible Commentary,

on Joel 2:28.

Questions for Meditation

Do I really love children and manifest

Christlike spirit toward them?

Do I faithfully do my part in fulfilling

God's requirements that make for happy

relationships in the home?

Do I recognize in the youth of today

the leaders of the church of tomorrow?

Lesson 2, for October 14, 1961

A Study in Character Contrasts

MEMORY VERSE:

"As

obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to

the former lusts in your ignorance: but as He which hath called you is holy,

so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy;

for I am holy." 1 Peter

1:14-16.

STUDY HELPS:

"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 71-79, 575-580, 727-745; "The

Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on lesson texts; the "Seventh-day

Adventist Bible Dictionary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Sunday: Questions 1-4; begin

reading Study Helps.

Monday: Questions 5-9.

Tuesday: Questions 10-12; read

further from Study Helps.



❑

Check

Here

Wednesday: Questions 13-15; read

from Study Helps.



❑

Thursday: Finish reading Study

Helps.



❑

Friday: Review entire lesson.



❑

[ 6 ]

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The First Two Youths

Joy in the first-born. Gen. 4:1.

Occupations of the two brothers.

Gen. 4:2.

Acceptable and unacceptable offer-

ings. Gen. 4:3-7.

Fruits of disobedience. Gen. 4:8-13;

5:1, 3 ; 1 Chron. 1:1; Luke 3:38.

II. Samuel and the Sons of Eli

Dedication of the child Samuel.

1 Sam. 1:26-28; 2:11, 18,20, 26.

Samuel's eagerness to obey.

1 Sam. 3:8-10, 19, 20.

7. Samuel honored by an important

vision. 1 Sam. 3:11-14.

8. Characters of sons of Eli.

1 Sam. 2:12, 17.

9. Warnings and divine justice.

1 Sam. 2:29-36.

III.

King's Son and a Young King

10. Prophecy of tragedy. 2 Sam. 12:10.

11. Appearance and character of Absa-

lom. 2 Sam. 14:25, 30; 15:4, 6,

10-12.

12. Result of evil ways. 2 Sam. 18:9,

10, 15, 33.

13. Family heritage of Josiah.

2 Kings



2, 16, 19-22.

14. Characteristics of Josiah's reign.

2 Kings 22:1, 2, 11-13; 23:25.

15. Spared from wrath to come.

2 Kings 22:19, 20.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"Cain and Abel, the sons of Adam, dif-

fered widely in character. Abel had a spirit

of loyalty to God; he saw justice and

mercy in the Creator's dealings with the

fallen race, and gratefully accepted the

hope of redemption. But Cain cherished

feelings of rebellion, and murmured against

God because of the curse pronounced upon

the earth and upon the human race for

Adam's sin. He permitted his mind to run

in the same channel that led to Satan's fall

-indulging the desire for self-exaltation and

questioning the divine justice and author-

ity."-Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 71.

The First Two Youths

To what expression did Eve give

utterance when her first child was

born? Gen. 4:1.

NoTE.-The Hebrew has no word for

"from" in this passage. Eve said simply,

"I have gotten a man-the Lord." (See

The

Desire of Ages,

page 31.)

What occupations did Cain and

Abel follow? Gen 4:2.

What offerings did Cain and

Abel make to God, and with what

result? Gen. 4:3-7.

NOTE.-"Cain

had the same opportunity

of learning and accepting these truths as

had Abel. He was not the victim of an

arbitrary purpose. One brother was not

elected to be accepted of God, and the other

to be rejected. Abel chose faith and obedi-

ence; Cain, unbelief and rebellion. Here the

whole matter rested.

"Cain and Abel represent two classes

that will exist in the world till the close of

time. One class avail themselves of the

appointed sacrifice for sin; the other ven-

ture to depend upon their own merits;

theirs is a sacrifice without the virtue of

divine mediation, and thus it is not able

to bring man into favor with God. It is

only through the merits of Jesus that our

transgressions can be

pardoned."-Patri-

archs and Prophets,

pages 72, 73.

What acts separated Cain from

God, and who in his place became the

progenitor of the Messiah? Gen. 4:8-

13; 5:1-3; 1 Chron. 1:1; Luke 3:38.

NoTE.-"Cain's 'works were evil and his

brother's righteous' (1 John 3:12). That is

why Cain killed his brother. Enmity be-

tween good and evil, predicted by God

before the expulsion from the garden, was

seen now for the first time in its most

horrible form. Twice in this verse the words

'his brother' are added to the name of Abel

to bring out clearly the horror of Cain's

sin. In him the seed of the woman had

already become the seed of the serpent.

Cain's crime revealed the true nature of

Satan as 'a murderer from the beginning'

(John 8:44). Already there had sprung up

that contrast of two distinct 'seeds' within

the human race, a contrast that runs

through the entire history of mankind."—

The Seventh-day Adventist' Bible Commen-

tary,

on Gen. 4:8.

Samuel and the Sons of Eli

Describe the circumstances of

Samuel's dedication to the Lord.

1 Sam. 1:26-28; 2:11, 18, 20, 26.

NOTE.—"All are given an opportunity to

develop character. All may fill their ap-

pointed places in God's great plan. The

Lord accepted Samuel from his very child-

hood, because his heart was pure. He was

given to God, a consecrated offering, and

the Lord made him a channel of light. If

the youth of today will consecrate them-

selves as did Samuel, the Lord will accept

them and use them in His work. Of their

life they may be able to say with the

psalmist, '0 God, Thou hast taught me

from my youth: and hitherto have I de-

clared Thy wondrous works.' Psalm 71:17."

—Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Stu-

dents,

page 537.

What particular event shows

Samuel's eagerness to obey both hu-

man and divine authority, and what

was the result? 1 Sam. 3:8-10, 19, 20.

NOTE.—"Since it was

a new

experience

for young Samuel, the Lord graciously

manifested His presence in some definite

way not described in detail. Ere a word

was spoken, both the old priest and his

young assistant had ample proof of the

presence of a supernatural power, and like

children instructed by their parents, both

were brought by the Holy Spirit to the

place where they were willing to listen and

obey. Such would not have been true had

the word of the Lord come to such as

Hophni!"—The

Seventh-day Adventist Bi-

ble Commentary,

on 1 Sam. 3:10.

What important vision did God

entrust to young Samuel? 1 Sam.

3:11-14.

NOTE.—"Another warning was to be

given to Eli's house. God could not com-

municate with the high priest and his son;

their

sins,

like a thick cloud, had shut out

the presence of His Holy Spirit. But in the

midst of evil the the child Samuel remained

true to Heaven, and the message of con-

demnation to the house of Eli was Samuel's

commission as a prophet of the Most High.

. . . The Lord had passed by His chosen

servant, the man of hoary hairs, to com-

mune with a child. This in itself was a

bitter yet deserved rebuke to Eli and his

house."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 581.

How are the characters of the

sons of Eli described? 1 Sam. 2:12, 17.

To whom was the first warning

of their evil characters given, and

what consequences of the mounting

iniquity were predicted? 1 Sam. 2:

29-36.

NOTE.—"God held Eli, as a priest and

judge of Israel, accountable for the moral

and religious standing of his people, and in

a special sense for the character of his sons.

He should first have attempted to restrain

evil by mild measures; but if these did not

avail, he should have subdued the wrong

by the severest means. He incurred the

Lord's displeasure by not reproving sin and

executing justice upon the sinner. He could

not be depended upon to keep Israel pure.

Those who have too little courage to re-

prove wrong, or who through indolence or

lack of interest make no earnest effort to

purify the family or the church of God, are

held accountable for the evil that may re-

[8]

suit from their neglect of duty. We are just

as responsible for evils that we might have

checked in others by exercise of parental or

pastoral authority as if the acts had been

our

own."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page

578.

A King's Son and a Young King

10.

What judgment was pro-

nounced on King David for his sin?

2 Sam. 12:10.

NOTE.—"As David had dealt unto others,

so now he himself was to receive. The

floodgates of evil that David had opened

would engulf his posterity in misery and

woe."—The Seventh-day Adventist Bible

Commentary,

on 2 Sam. 12:10.

11.

How are the appearance and

character of David's son Absalom de-

scribed? 2 Sam. 14:25, 30; 15:4, 6,

10-12.

NoTE.—"Such a strategem certainly

would secure action on the part of Joab,

but it would be resorted to only on the

part of an unscrupulous, irresponsible

character."—The

Seventh-day Adventist Bi-

ble Commentary,

on 2 Sam. 14:30.

12.

What rebellious course did Ab-

salom pursue, and what were the

results? 2 Sam. 18:9, 10 15, 33.

NoTE.—"David had neglected the duty

of punishing the crime of Amnon, and be-

cause of the unfaithfulness of the king and

father and the impenitence of the son, the

Lord permitted events to take their natural

course, and did not restrain Absalom. When

parents or rulers neglect the duty of punish-

ing iniquity, God Himself will take the

case in hand. His restraining power will be

in a measure removed from the agencies of

evil, so that a train of circumstances will

arise which will punish sin with sin."—

Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 728.

13.

What was the family heritage

of young King Josiah? 2 Kings 21:1,

2, 16, 19-22.

NOTE.—"Born of a wicked king, beset

with temptations to follow in his father's

steps, and with few counselors to encourage

him in the right way, Josiah nevertheless

was true to the God of Isreal. Warned by

the errors of past generations, he chose to

do right, instead of descending to the low

level of sin and degradation to which his

father and his grandfather had fallen. He

`turned not aside to the right hand or to the

left.'

"—Prophets and Kings,

page 384.

Set yourself a worthy goal,

Steadfast aim of your own

soul;

Make it your enduring

rule—

Always be at Sabbath school.

14.

Despite an unfavorable

herit-

age, what course did Josiah pursue?

2 Kings 22:1, 2, 11-13; 23:25.

NOTE.—"The emissaries consisted of a

number of Josiah's most trusted servants.

The king sensed the seriousness of the issues

at stake. Knowing how far the people had

wandered from the paths of righteousness

and to what extent they had forsaken the

Lord, he knew the extreme dangers that

faced the nation. He determined to do

everything in his power to save his people."

—The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Com-

mentary,

on 2 Kings 22:13.

15.

What promise did God make to

the devoted young king? 2 Kings

22:19, 20.

NoTE.—"There are times when even

death is a blessing. In mercy God would

allow Josiah to go to his grave before Judah

was involved in final ruin. Josiah himself

was slain in battle (ch. 23:29), but his death

spared him from witnessing the terrible

]

calamity a few years later."-The

Seventh-

day Adventist Bible Commentary,

Kings 22:20.

"Alas for the battle of Megiddo, and the

arrow that struck down the heroic reformer

while yet a young man! But, after all,

years are not for such as he; they live in

deeds and not in decades, and Josiah's life

was a long one,-already more than two

millenniums !"-Amos R. Wells,

Bible Min-

iatures,

page 156.

Questions for Meditation

Will God overlook willful disobedience

and prevent the consequences because "I

am young only once"?

As a parent, do I have the courage to

do my part to assist God to mold the

lives of my children?

Does delinquency necessarily indicate

a "hopeless" character?

Lesson 3, for October 21, 1961

Triumph in the Supreme Test

MEMORY VERSE:

"And I will make thy seed to multiply as the stars of heaven,

and will give unto thy seed all these countries; and in thy seed shall all the

nations of the earth be blessed." Gen. 26:4.

STUDY HELPS:

"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 145-155; "The Seventh-day

Adventist Bible Commentary," on lesson texts; the "Seventh-day Adventist

Bible Dictionary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Sunday: Questions 1-3.



Monday: Questions 4-6.

Tuesday: Questions 7-9.

Check Here

Wednesday: Questions

10, 11;

read

from Study Helps.



❑

Thursday: Read further from Study

Helps.



Friday: Review entire lesson.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Birth of Isaac Foretold

Promise to the childless.

Gen. 15:1-6.

Human intervention in a divine

plan. Gen. 16:1, 2, 11, 15.

The promise renewed.

Gen. 17:15, 16.

II. The Child of Promise

4. The promise fulfilled. Gen. 21:1-3.

Rejoicing in the miracle birth.

Gen. 21:5-8.

Future predicted for both sons of

Abraham. Gen. 17:19-21.

III. The Supreme Test

God's amazing command.

Gen. 22:1, 2.

Abraham's response. Gen. 22:3.

Isaac's attitude. Gen. 22:5-10.

10.

God's intervention. Gen. 22:11, 12.

11.

Blessing to father and son.

Gen. 22:15-18; 26:1-4, 12, 13.

THE LESSON

Introduction



of his background and attitudes is reward-

ing. A paradoxical truth stands forth from

The approach in this lesson to a familiar this supreme example of faith: Human

story is from the viewpoint of the son, who weakness becomes superhuman strength

was also tested personally. A careful search under God's control.

Birth of Isaac Foretold

How did God respond to Abra-

ham's complaint about the lack of an

:heir? Gen. 15:1-6.

NOTE.—"Abram was a sinner and needed

redemption, as does every other human

being; but when righteousness was imputed

to him, mercy and grace were also extended,

effecting the pardon of his sin and bringing

the rewards of righteousness. Here for the

first time the full importance of faith is

brought to view. Here also, for the first

time, imputed righteousness is mentioned.

From this point onward both fundamental

concepts run through the Holy Scriptures,

to find exhaustive and masterful treatment

by the pen of the apostle Paul."—The

Sev-

enth-day Adventist Bible Commentary,

Gen. 15:6.

When the promise of an heir

was delayed, what action did Sarah

suggest? Gen. 16:1, 2, 11, 15.

NoTE.—"Abraham had accepted without

question the promise of a son, but he did

not wait for God to fulfill His word in His

own time and way. A delay was permitted,

to test his faith in the power of God; but

he failed to endure the trial. Thinking it

impossible that a child should be given her

in her old age, Sarah suggested, as a plan

by which the divine purpose might be ful-

filled, that one of her handmaids should

be taken by Abraham as a secondary wife.

Polygamy had become so widespread that

it had ceased to be regarded as a sin, but

it was no less a violation of the law of God,

and was fatal to the sacredness and peace

and the family relation. Abraham's marriage

with Hagar resulted in evil, not only to

his own household, but to future genera-

tions."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 145.

How did God later further em-

phasize His promise? Gen 17:15, 16.

NOTE .—"Af ter the many years of waiting

Abraham was given definite instructions to

the effect that the promised seed would be

Sarah's child and not the child of Hagar."

—The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Com-

mentary,

on Gen. 17:16.

"The object of Sabbath

school work should be the

ingathering of souls."—

Counsels on Sabbath School

Work,

page 61.

The Child of Promise

How was the promise of a son

fulfilled? Gen. 21:1-3.

NorE.—"The birth of Isaac was -contrary

to the usual course of nature (Gal. 4: 23;

Heb. 11:11). From time to time in God's

dealings with the chosen people He gave

them miraculous evidences of His divine

power and leadership in order to inspire

them with confidence in Him (see John

15:11). These miracles reached a climax in

the great miracle of all time—the Incarna-

tion, perfect life, vicarious death, glorious

resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ."

—The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Com-

mentary,

on Gen. 21:1.

How did Sarah express her joy

over the miracle birth? Gen. 21:5-8.

NOTE.—"Sarah's laughter

year previ-

ously had reflected cynicism and incredulity,

but now she laughed for joy. The steadfast-

ness of Abraham and Sarah through what

seemed to them long, dark years of disap-

pointment and delay, was now rewarded.

To them the birth of Isaac meant the dawn

of a new day (see Ps. 30:5). It was the

`earnest,' or token, that the promise in its

entirety—the coming of the Messiah, the

gospel to all nations, and the eternal home

in Canaan—would eventually be realized."

—The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Com-

mentary,

on Gen. 21:6.

What future did God predict for

both Ishmael and Isaac? Gen. 17:

19-21.

The Supreme Test

What command came to Abra-

ham regarding this son in whom so

much hope rested? Gen 22:1, 2.

NOTE.—"God had called Abraham to be

the father of the faithful, and his life was

to stand as an example of the faith to suc-

ceeding generations. But his faith had not

been perfect. He had shown distrust of God

in concealing the fact that Sarah was his

wife, and again in his marriage with Hagar.

That he might reach the highest standard,

God subjected him to another test, the

closest which man was ever called to en-

dure. In a vision of the night he was di-

rected to repair to the land of Moriah, and

there offer up his son as a burnt offering

upon a mountain that should be shown

him.

"At the time of receiving this command,

Abraham had reached the age of a hundred

and twenty years. He was regarded as an

old man, even in his generation. In his

earlier years he had been strong to endure

hardship and to brave danger, but now the

ardor of his youth had passed away. One in

the vigor of manhood may with courage

meet difficulties and afflictions that would

cause his heart to fail later in life, when

his feet are faltering toward the grave. But

God had reserved His last, most trying test

for Abraham until the burden of years was

heavy upon him, and he longed for rest

from anxiety and

toil."—Patriarchs and

Prophets,

page 147.

How promptly did Abraham

obey? Gen 22:3.

NoTE.—"Isaac was the light of his home,

the solace of his old age, above all else the

inheritor of the promised blessing. The loss

of such a son by accident or disease would

have been heart-rending to the fond father;

it would have bowed down his whitened

head with grief ; but he was commanded to

shed the blood of that son with his own

hand. It seemed to him a fearful impossi-

bility. . . .

"In his doubt and anguish he bowed

upon the earth, and prayed, as he had never

prayed before, for some confirmation of

the command if he must perform this ter-

rible duty. . . . But none came to his relief.

Darkness seemed to shut him in; but the

command of God was sounding in his ears,

`Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac,

whom thou lovest.' That command must

be obeyed, and he dared not delay. Day was

approaching, and he must be on his

jour-

ney."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 148.

What factors show that Isaac

had learned both faith and obedience?

Gen. 22:5-10.

NOTE.—"At the appointed place they

built the altar and laid the wood upon it.

Then, with trembling voice, Abraham un-

folded to his son the divine message. It was

with terror and amazement that Isaac

learned his fate, but he offered no resistance.

He could have escaped his doom, had he

chosen to do so ; the grief-stricken old man,

exhausted with the struggle of those three

terrible days, could not have opposed the

will of the vigorous youth. But Isaac had

been trained from childhood to ready, trust-

ing obedience, and as the purpose of God

was opened before him, he yielded a willing

submission. He was a sharer in Abraham's

faith, and he felt that he was honored in

being called to give his life as an offering

to God. He tenderly seeks to lighten the

father's grief, and encourage his nervous

hands to bind the cords that confine him

to the

altar."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 152.

10.

How did God spare father and

son this supreme ordeal? Gen. 22:11,

12.

NOTE.—"Heavenly beings were witnesses

of the scene as the faith of Abraham and

the submission of Isaac were tested. The

trial was far more severe than that which

had been brought upon Adam. Compliance

with the prohibition laid upon our first

parents involved no suffering, but the com-

mand to Abraham demanded the most

agonizing sacrifice. All heaven beheld with.

12 ]

wonder and admiration Abraham's unfalter-

ing obedience. All heaven applauded his

fidelity. Satan's accusations were shown to

be false. God declared to His servant, Now

I know that thou fearest God [notwith-

standing Satan's charges], seeing thou hast

not withheld thy son, thine only son, from

Me.' God's covenant, confirmed to Abra-

ham by an oath before the intelligences of

other worlds, testified that obedience will be

rewarded."-Patriarchs and Prophets,

page

155.

11.

How

was the special blessing

to Abraham later transferred to Isaac?

Gen. 22:15-18; 26:1-4, 12, 13.

NOTE.

-"The

promises made to Abraham

and confirmed to his son were held by

Isaac and Rebekah as the great object of

their desires and

hopes."-Patriarchs and

Prophets,

page 177.

Questions for Meditation

Was the test equal for both father and

son?

If I feel weak and dependent, does it

mean that I would fail in a similar test?

What can I do to have a faith that

will stand any test?

Lesson 4, for October 28, 1961

The Young Woman Who Became the Mother of Two Nations

MEMORY VERSE:

"That our sons may be as plants grown up in their youth; that

our daughters may be as cornerstones, polished after the similitude of a pal-

ace." Ps. 144:12.

STUDY HELPS:

"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 171-176; "The Seventh-day Ad-

ventist Bible Commentary," on lesson texts; the "Seventh-day Adventist Bible

Dictionary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD



Check Here



Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Wednesday: Questions 10-13.



❑

Sunday: Questions 1-3.



❑



Thursday: Finish reading Study

Monday: Questions 4-6.



❑



Helps.

Tuesday: Questions 7-9; begin read-



Friday: Review entire lesson.

ing Study Helps.



❑

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The Journey to Nahor

Abraham's concern regarding

Isaac's marriage. Gen. 24:1-9.

Prayerful approach. Gen. 24:10-17.

Courtesy and hospitality of

Rebekah. Gen. 24:18-27.

II. In the Family Home

Reception of the guest.

Gen. 24:28-33.

The message delivered.

Gen. 24:48, 49.

6. Rebekah's decision. Gen. 24:50-61.

III. A New Home Established

7. Place of meeting. Gen. 24:62, 63.

8. A union blessed of God.

Gen. 24:64-67.

9. Mother of two nations.

Gen. 25:21-23.

IV. Parental Counsel

10. Rebekah's anxiety. Gen 27:46.

11. Isaac's counsel to his son.

Gen. 28:1-5.

12. Similar circumstances of meeting.

Gen. 29:1, 2, 9-13, 18.

13. Jacob, the chosen. Gen. 28:11-15.

[13]

THE 'LESSON

2. What shows that Abraham made

a good choice in his emissary, and

how was the servant immediately re-

warded? 'Gen. 24:10-17.

Introduction

An interesting pattern of readiness to

do God's will may be discovered in the

story of Rebekah and her family. Though

human error mars the record, here is dem-

onstrated most graphically that it is the

trend in the life that counts. God gives

victory and fulfills His promises, when the

will is dedicated, though His children often

make it necessary for Him to accomplish

what they really desire by different provi-

dences. Here is strikingly portrayed the

hopeful aspect of salvation. Though inter-

mittent periods of apparent obedience to

God will suffice nothing, yet in the dedi-

cated life the way is ever upward and the

final victory sure.

The Journey to Nahor

1. What great concern did Abra-

ham express regarding the marriage

of Isaac? Gen 24:1-9.

Nora.—"The inhabitants of Canaan were

given to idolatry, and God had forbidden

intermarriage between His people and them,

knowing that such marriages would lead to

apostasy. The patriarch feared the effect of

the corrupting influences surrounding his

son. Abraham's habitual faith in God and

submission to His will were reflected in the

character of Isaac; but the young man's

affections were strong, and he was gentle

and yielding in disposition. If united with

one who did not fear God, he would be in

danger of sacrificing principle for the sake

of harmony. In the mind of Abraham the

choice of a wife for his son was a matter

of grave importance; he was anxious to

have him marry one who would not lead

him from God.

"In ancient times marriage engagements

were generally made by the parents, and

this was the custom among those who

worshiped God. None were required to

marry those whom they could not love;

but in the bestowal of their affections the

youth were guided by the judgment of

their experienced, God-fearing parents. It

was regarded as a dishonor to parents,

and even a crime, to pursue a course con-

trary to

this."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 171.

How did Rebekah show cour-

tesy and hospitality? Gen 24:18-27.

NOTE.—"Hardly was the prayer uttered

before the answer was given. Among the

women who were gathered at the well, the

courteous manners of one attracted his at-

tention. As she came from the well, the

stranger went to meet her, asking for some

water from the pitcher upon her shoulder.

The request received a kindly answer, with

an offer to draw water for the camels also,

a service which it was customary even for

the daughters of princes to perform for

their father's flocks and herds. Thus the

desired sign was given. The maiden 'was

very fair to look upon,' and her ready

courtesy gave evidence of a kind heart, and

an active, energetic nature. Thus far the

divine hand had been with him. After

acknowledging her kindness by rich gifts,

the messanger asked her parentage, and on

learning that she was the daughter of

Bethuel, Abraham's nephew, 'he bowed

down his head and worshiped the Lord.' "

—Patriarchs and Prophets,

pages, 172, 173.

In the Family Home

How was the guest received in

Rebekah's home? Gen. 24:28-33.

After relating the providences of

his journey, what request did the ser-

vant make? Gen. 24:48, 49.

What conversation ensued, and

how was the matter settled? Gen.

24:50-61.

114]

Nora.—"After the consent of the family

had been obtained, Rebekah herself was

consulted as to whether she would go to so

great a distance from her father's house,

to marry the son of Abraham. She believed,

from what had taken place, that God had

selected her to be Isaac's wife, and she said,

`I will go.'

"—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page

173.

What is your Sabbath school

Investment project?

A New Home Established

What was Isaac doing as Re-

bekah and the caravan approached?

Gen.

24:62, 63.

NOTE.—"Isaac may have been meditating

upon, or praying for, Eliezer's safe return

with his bride-to-be. He was, to be sure,

anticipating their imminent return from

Mesopotamia. His future happiness would

depend in large measure upon the kind of

wife Eliezer should bring back with him.

Appropriate indeed it would be for Isaac to

kneel and pray for the blessing of God

upon his new home! Those husbands and

wives whose union comes in answer to

prayer will prove to be the greatest blessing

to each other."—The

Seventh-day Adventist

Bible Commentary,

on Gen. 24:63.

What statement shows that the

marriage was successful? Gen. 24:

64-67.

NorE.—"What a contrast between the

course of Isaac and that pursued by the

youth of our time, even among professed

Christians! Young people too often feel

that the bestowal of their affections is a

matter in which self alone should be con-

sulted—a matter that neither God nor their

parents should in any wise control. Long

before they have reached manhood or

womanhood they think themselves compe-

tent to make their own choice, without the

aid of their parents. A few years of married

life are usually sufficient to show them

their error, but often too late to prevent

its baleful results. For the same lack of wis-

dom and self-control that dictated the

hasty choice is permitted to aggravate the

evil, until the marriage relation becomes a

galling yoke. Many have thus wrecked

their happiness in this life and their hope

of the life to come.

"If. there is any subject which should be

carefully considered and in which the coun-

sel of older and more experienced persons

should be sought, it is the subject of mar-

riage; if ever the Bible was needed as a

counselor, if ever divine guidance should

be sought in prayer, it is before taking .a

step that binds persons together for life."

—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 175.

For what did Isaac entreat the

Lord? With what result? Gen. 25:

21-23.

NOTE.—"Like his father, Isaac was to

learn that children of the promise were not

to be simply the fruit of nature, but mani-

festly the gift of grace as well. When Isaac

and Rebekah had been married for 19 years

(vs. 20, 26), and were still childless, Isaac

made the matter a subject of prayer. . . .

His confidence in God was not exercised in

vain, nor did he have long to wait before

faith became fact."—The

Seventh-day Ad-

ventist Bible Commentary,

on Gen. 25:21.

Parental Counsel

10.

What great concern did Re-

bekah express for one of her sons?

Gen 27:46.

NOTE.—"Fathers and mother should feel

that a duty devolves upon them to guide

the affections of the youth, that they may

be placed upon those who will be suitable

companions. They should feel it a duty, by

their own teaching and example, with the

assisting grace of God, to so mold the

character of the children from their earliest

years that they will be pure and noble and

will be attracted to the good and true. Like

attracts like; like appreciates like. Let the

love for truth and purity and goodness be

[ 15 ]

early implanted in the soul, and the youth

will seek the society of those who possess

these characteristics."—Patriarchs

and

Prophets,

page 176.

11.

What counsel, spoken earlier

concerning himself, did Isaac repeat to

his son regarding a vital matter? Gen.

28:1-5.

NorE.—"The official family line was to

be perpetuated through Jacob. Conse-

quently, the blessings repeatedly promised

to Abraham were now committed to Jacob

(see chs. 17:2-8; 22:16-18). He left home

burdened with guilt, but also with his

father's blessing."—The

Seventh-day Ad-

ventist Bible Commentary,

on Gen. 28:4.

12.

In what way was Rachel's ex-

perience similar to that of Rebekah's?

Gen. 29:1, 2, 9-13, 18.

Nora.—"Apparently it was not the cus-

tom for young women to be kept at home

until the time of their marriage ap-

proached. Nor was it beneath the dignity of

girls from wealthy families to carry water

from the well, as Rebekah did, or to tend

sheep, as Rachel did in this instance. Honest

labor, far from being a discredit, is an

honor to both high and low. Every son and

daughter should learn that work is not

humiliating, but that it is a privilege to con-

tribute to the needs of the family."—The

Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,

on Gen. 29:9.

13.

How was God's promise to

Abraham and Isaac renewed to Re-

bekah's son? Gen. 28:11-15.

NOTE.—"Christ is the ladder that Jacob

saw, the base resting on the earth, and the

topmost round reaching to the gate of

heaven, to the very threshold of glory. If

that ladder had failed by a single step of

reaching the earth, we should have been

lost. But Christ reaches us where we are.

He took our nature and overcame, that we

through taking His nature might over-

come."—The

Desire of Ages,

pages 311, 312.

Questions for Meditation

Consider how different the story might

have been if human inclination alone had

been the guide in choosing a life companion.

What gave Rebekah courage to leave

home and friends and go with a stranger

into a far country?

When God delays, is it ever advisable

to take things into our own hands?

Is it possible to know when we are

running ahead of God?

Lesson 5, for November 4, 1961

The Youthful Dreamer

MEMORY VERSE:

"And

we know that all things work together for good to them that

love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose." Rom. 8:28.

STUDY HELPS:

"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 209-240; "The Seventh-day

Adventist Bible Commentary," on lesson texts; the "Seventh-day Adventist

Bible Dictionary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.



❑

Check Here

Sunday: Questions 1-3; begin read-

Wednesday: Questions 11-14.

❑

ing from Study Helps.

❑

Thursday: Finish reading Study

Monday: Questions 4-7.

❑

Helps.

Tuesday: Questions 8-10.

❑

Friday:



Review entire lesson.

[16]

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Early Life of Joseph

His birth, parental partiality.

Gen. 30:25, 26; 33:1, 2; 37:3.

Two similar dreams. Gen. 37:4-11.

Hatred breeds a murderous plot.

Gen. 37:18-24, 26-28, 34-36.

II. Triumph in Bondage

Responsibility and honor in Egypt.

Gen. 39:1-6.

Temptation resisted. Gen. 39:7-12.

In prison for righteousness.

Gen. 39:19-23.

Restored to greater honor.

Gen. 41:37-44, 46.

III. The Dream Fulfilled

The desperate mission of Joseph's

brothers. Gen. 41:54-57; 42:1, 2.

Testing and remorse. Gen. 42:6-23.

10.

Joseph's real feelings. Gen. 42:24.

IV. Despair Gives Place to Joyful

Reunion

11.

The second visit. Gen. 43:8, 9, 16,

29-31.

12.

Further testing, and revelation.

Gen. 44:2, 12, 16; 45:1-11.

13.

Reunion of father and son.

Gen. 46:29, 30; 47:1, 2, 5, 7, 12.

14.

Complete forgiveness and recogni-

tion of God's leading. Gen. 50:15,

18-21.

THE LESSON

Introduction

How many times has the classic story of

Joseph been told and retold! How many

youth have gained from it courage to pick

up again the broken threads of life, faith to

see a glimmer of light in the utter darkness

of seemingly hopeless situations ! This is one

of the epic biographies of the word of God

that are timeless. Could the odds against an

inexperienced, overprotected youth have

been more fiercely arrayed? But it is a story

of uninterrupted victory in struggles that

originated from within and from without.

The high lights of the detailed account of

Joseph's life have been combined in this

lesson to show God's power in watching

over the fires of affliction and in bringing

triumph, regardless of the circumstances.

Early Life of Joseph

1. Where was Joseph born, and

what was the attitude of his parents

toward him? Gen. 30:25, 26; 33:1, 2;

37:3.

NOTE.—"Jacob unwisely manifested his

preference for Joseph, and this excited the

jealousy of his other sons. As Joseph wit-

nessed the evil conduct of his brothers, he

was greatly troubled; he ventured gently

to remonstrate with them, but only aroused

still further their hatred and resentment. He

could not endure to see them sinning against

God, and he laid the matter before his

father, hoping that his authority might

lead them to reform. . . .

"The father's injudicious gift to Joseph

of a costly coat, or tunic, such as was

usually worn by persons of distinction,

seemed to them another evidence of his

partiality, and excited a suspicion that he

intended to pass by his elder children, to

bestow the birthright upon the son of

Ra-

chel."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 209.

2. What incited the jealousy of

Joseph's brothers? What element in

two dreams that Joseph dreamed es-

pecially angered them? Gen. 37:4-11.

NOTE.—"As the lad stood before his

brothers, his beautiful countenance lighted

up with the Spirit of Inspiration, they

could not withhold their admiration; but

they did not choose to renounce their evil

ways, and they hated the purity that re-

proved their sins. The same spirit that

actuated Cain was kindling in their hearts."

—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 210.

[ 17

"One dollar now is of more

value to the work than ten

dollars will be at some fu-

ture

period."—Counsels on

Sabbath School Work,

page

134.

What plot was devised, and how

was the plot changed into a lesser

tragedy, and with what results? Gen.

37:18-24, 26-28, 34-36.

Triumph in Bondage

What honors came to Joseph in

bondage, and why? Gen. 39:1-6.

NOTE.—"The marked prosperity which

attended everything placed under Joseph's

care was not the result of a direct miracle;

but his industry, care, and energy were

crowned with the divine blessing. Joseph at-

tributed his success to the favor of God, and

even his idolatrous master accepted this

as the secret of his unparalleled prosperity.

Without steadfast, well-directed effort,

however, success could never have been

attained. God was glorified by the faith-

fulness of His servant. It was His purpose

that in purity and uprightness the believer

in God should appear in marked contrast

to the worshipers of idols—that thus the

light of heavenly grace might shine forth

amid the darkness of heathenism."—Patri-

archs

and Prophets,

pages 214, 217.

How did Joseph show his firm-

ness in resisting temptation? Gen.

39:7-12.

NOTE.—"Joseph knew well what would

be the consequence of resistance. On the

one hand were concealment, favor, and

rewards; on the other, disgrace, imprison-

ment, perhaps death. His whole future life

depended upon the decision of the moment.

Would principle triumph? Would Joseph

still be true to God? With inexpressible

anxiety, angels looked upon the scene."—

Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 217.

What was Joseph's experience

as he suffered unjust punishment?

Gen. 39:19-23.

NoTE.—"But Joseph's real character

shines out, even in the darkness of the dun-

geon. He held fast his faith and patience;

his years of faithful service had been most

cruelly repaid, yet this did not render him

morose or distrustful. He had the peace that

comes from conscious innocence, and he

trusted his case with God. He did not brood

upon his own wrongs, but forgot his sor-

row in trying to lighten the sorrows of

others. He found a work to do, even in the

prison. God was preparing him, in the

school of affliction, for greater usefulness,

and he did not refuse the needful discipline."

—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 218.

After interpreting a series of

dreams, with what higher position

and greater responsibility was Joseph

honored? Gen. 41:37-44, 46.

The Dream Fulfilled

What caused Joseph's brothers

to visit Egypt? Gen. 41:54-57; 42:1, 2.

NOTE.—"Joseph's wisdom as an adminis-

trator now became apparent to all. If

anyone had had doubt as to his policy of

hoarding tremendous quantities of grain

year after year, none questioned the pru-

dence of the policy now. What would

Pharaoh, a foreign ruler, have done with a

famishing population? How could he have

averted the overthrow of his own dynasty,

except for the forethought of Joseph? This

young Hebrew, a former house slave, had

become the savior of the throne, of all

Egypt, and of surrounding nations as well."

—The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Com-

mentary,

on Gen. 41:56.

[18

As Joseph saw the dream of his

youth being fulfilled, how did he

prove his brothers? How did they

express remorse for their evil deed?

Gen. 42:6-23.

NOTE.—"During the years since Joseph

had been separated from his brothers, these

sons of Jacob had changed in character.

Envious, turbulent, deceptive, cruel, and

revengeful they had been; but now, when

tested by adversity, they were shown to be

unselfish, true to one another, devoted to

their father, and, themselves middle-aged

men, subject to his

authority."—Patriarchs

and Prophets,

page 225.

10.

What revealed Joseph's real

feelings toward his brothers? Gen.

42:24.

Despair Gives Place

to Joyful Reunion

11.

On the occasion of the brothers'

second visit, how did Joseph receive

them, and how did he conceal his

inner emotions? Gen 43:8, 9, 16,

29-31.

12.

After further testing his broth-

ers, how did Joseph show his gracious,

forgiving spirit? Gen. 44:2, 12, 16;

45:1-11.

13.

Upon the arrival of his aged

father, in what ways did Joseph honor

him? Gen. 46:29, 30; 47:1, 2, 5, 7, 12.

NOTE.—"Upon reaching Egypt the com-

pany proceeded directly to the land of

Goshen. Thither came Joseph in his char-

iot of state, attended by a princely retinue.

The splendor of his surroundings and the

dignity of his position were alike forgotten;

one thought alone filled his mind, one long-

ing thrilled his heart. As he beheld the

travelers approaching, the love whose

yearnings had for so many long years been

repressed, would no longer be controlled. He

sprang from his chariot and hastened for-

ward to bid his father welcome. 'And he

fell on his neck, and wept on his neck a

good while. And Israel said unto Joseph,

Now let me die, since I have seen thy face,

because thou art yet alive.' . . .

"Not long after their arrival Joseph

brought his father also to be presented to

the king. The patriarch was a stranger in

royal courts; but amid the sublime scenes

of nature he had communed with a might-

ier Monarch; and now, in conscious super-

iority, he raised his hands and blessed

Pharaoh."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page

233.

14.

Following the death of Jacob,

how did Joseph show forgiving love

for his brothers and his understanding

of God's providences? Gen. 50:15,

18-21.

NOTE.—"The life of Joseph illustrates

the life of Christ. It was envy that moved

the brothers of Joseph to sell him as a

slave; they hoped to prevent him from

becoming greater than themselves. And

when he was carried to Egypt, they flat-

tered themselves that they were to be no

more troubled with his dreams, that they

had removed all possibility of their fulfill-

ment. But their own course was overruled

by God to bring about the very event that

they designed to hinder. So the Jewish

priests and elders were jealous of Christ,

fearing that He would attract the attention

of the people from them. They put Him to

death, to prevent Him from becoming king,

but they were thus bringing about this very

result."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 239.

Questions for Meditation

How does parental indulgence or par-

tiality make it necessary for God at times

to use seemingly harsh means in shaping

youthful character?

Though in a worldly environment,

what makes the difference between success

and failure in a Christian life?

Am I conscious of God's overruling

power for good in the misfortunes that

befall me?

[19

Lesson 6, for November 11, 1961

A Youth Chosen for Great Leadership

MEMORY VERSE:

"He is the Rock, His work is perfect: for all His ways are judg-

ment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is He." Deut. 32:4.

STUDY HELPS:

"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 241-272, 411-421; "The Seventh-

day Adventist Bible Commentary," on lesson texts; the "Seventh-day Adventist

Bible Dictionary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD



Check Here



Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Tuesday: Questions 7-10.



❑

Sunday: Questions 1-3; begin read-



Wednesday: Questions 11-14.



❑

ing from Study Helps.



❑

Thursday: Read from Study Helps.

❑

Monday: Questions 4-6; read fur-



Friday: Finish reading Study Helps;

ther from Study Helps.



❑



review entire lesson.



❑

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The Cry of Oppression

Moses' birth and adoption.

Ex. 2:1-10.

His impulsive deed. Ex. 2:11-22.

God hears Israel's cry. Ex. 2:23-25.

II. The Call to Leadership

The burning bush. Ex. 3:1-4.

God's call. Ex. 3:5, 6, 10.

Moses' doubts and fears.

Ex. 3:11-22 ; 4:1-17.

III. Acceptance of God's Call

Preliminary events.

Ex. 4:18-21, 27-31.

Moses faces Pharaoh. Ex. 5:1, 22, 23.

Repeated appeals rejected. Ex. 6:11,

29, last part; 9:1, 13 ; 10:1.

10.

Deliverance. Ex. 15:1-18.

IV. God's Lessons Learned

11.

Special honor. Ex. 19:20;

31:18; 34:1, 2, 27-30.

12.

Disobedience meets punishment.

Num. 20:10-12 ; 27:12-14.

13.

Resignation and victory.

Num. 27:15-23.

14.

The greatest prophet. Deut. 34:1-6,

10; Matt. 17:1-3 ; Heb. 3:1, 2 ;

11:24, 25.

THE LESSON

tions of their bondage to a heathen nation

were reflected in great, agonizing cries to

God. Such circumstances do not readily

develop great leaders, but from these for-

bidding circumstances God brought forth

the greatest earthly leader of all time. Thus

we have recorded for our study, our en-

couragement, and our profit a most out-

standing demonstration of the fact that

neither environment nor human character-

istics can prevent God from accomplishing

mighty things through a submissive human

instrument.

20 ]

Introduction

In Egypt, the land to which they had

come and in which they had made their

home through such a strange turn of events,

the children of Israel prospered and multi-

plied, "and the land was filled with them."

Ex. 1:7. The generation of Jacob's sons

passed on, and with the coming of new

generations a new king arose to power

"which knew not Joseph." Verse 8. He

looked upon the nation of Israel as a

threat, and enslaved them. The cruel afflic-

The Cry of Oppression

Describe the circumstances sur-

rounding Moses' birth, protection,

and early training. Ex. 2:1-10.

NOTE.—"Let every mother feel that her

moments are priceless; her work will be

tested in the solemn day of accounts. Then

it will be found that many of the failures

and crimes of men and women have re-

sulted from the ignorance and neglect of

those whose duty it was to guide their

childish feet in the right way. Then it will

be found that many who have blessed the

world with the light of genius and truth

and holiness, owe the principles that were

the mainspring of their influence and success

to a praying, Christian

mother."—Patri-

archs and Prophets,

page 244.

What impulsive act did Moses

commit, and how did it change the

course of his life? Ex. 2:11-22.

NOTE.—"In slaying the Egyptian, Moses

had fallen into the same error so often com-

mitted by his fathers, of taking into their

own hands the work that God had promised

to do. It was not God's will to deliver His

people by warfare, as Moses thought, but

by His own mighty power, that the glory

might be ascribed to Him alone. Yet even

this rash act was overruled by God to ac-

complish His purposes. Moses was not pre-

pared for his great work. He had yet to

learn the same lesson of faith that Abraham

and Jacob had been taught—not to rely

upon human strength or wisdom, but upon

the power of God for the fulfillment of His

promises."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page

247.

What was God's special concern

at this time? Ex. 2:23-25.

The Call to Leadership

Through what supernatural

event did God reveal Himself to Mo-

ses? Ex. 3:1-4.

How did God identify Himself,

and what call did He extend? Ex. 3:5,

6, 10.

NOTE.—"Humility and reverence should

characterize the deportment of all who

come into the presence of God. In the name

of Jesus we may come before Him with

confidence, but we must not approach Him

with the boldness of presumption, as though

He were on a level with ourselves. There are

those who address the great and all-power-

ful and holy God, who dwelleth in light

unapproachable, as they would address an

equal, or even an inferior. There are those

who conduct themselves in His house as

they would not presume to do in the

audience chamber of an earthly ruler. These

should remember that they are in His sight

whom seraphim adore, before whom angels

veil their

faces."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 252.

How did the ensuing conversa-

tion reveal Moses' presistent doubts

and fears, and God's great forbear-

ance? Ex. 3:11-22; 4:1-17.

NOTE.—"A man will gain power and effi-

ciency as he accepts the responsibilities that

God places upon him, and with his whole

soul seeks to qualify himself to bear them

aright. However humble his position or

limited his ability, that man will attain true

greatness who, trusting to divine strength,

seeks to perform his work with fidelity.

Had Moses relied upon his own strength

and wisdom, and eagerly accepted the great

charge, he would have evinced his entire

unfitness for such a work. The fact that a

man feels his weakness is at least some

evidence that he realizes the magnitude of

the work appointed him, and that he will

make God his counselor and his strength."

—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 255.

Acceptance of God's Call

Name the events preceding Mo-

ses' first appearance before the king

of Egypt. Ex. 4:18-21, 27-31.

[ 2

1 ]

What complaint did Moses lodge

after his visit to Pharaoh served only

to increase Israel's afflictions? Ex. 5:1,

22, 23.

NOTE.—"Moses' words did not reflect a

spirit of displeasure or insubordination,

but of perplexity and inquiry. The question

and complaint proceeded from a faith that

could not understand the dealings of God.

At the same time he appealed for help in

this hour of need and for the removal of

what seemed contrary to God's nature

and His

will."—The Seventh-day Advent-

ist Bible Commentary,

on Ex. 5:22.

What are the consequences of

repeated rejection of God's appeals?

Ex. 6:11, 29, last part; 9:1, 13; 10:1.

NoTE.—"The hardening of Pharaoh's

heart was in no way an act of God, but

rather a deliberate choice on his own part

(see PP 268). By repeated warnings and

displays of divine power God sent light

designed to point out to Pharaoh the error

of his ways, to soften and subdue his heart,

and to lead him to co-operate with His

will (see DA 322). But each successive

manifestation of divine power left him more

determined to do as he pleased. Refusing to

be corrected, he despised and rejected the

light, until he became insensitive to it, and

the light was finally withdrawn."—The

Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,

on Ex. 4:21.

10.

In what way was gratitude for

deliverance expressed? Ex. 15:1-18.

God's Lessons Learned

11.

What high honor was Moses

alone privileged to receive? Ex. 19:20;

31:18; 34:1, 2, 27-30.

NOTE.—"While Moses was in the mount,

God presented to him, not only the tables

of the law, but also the plan of salvation.

He saw that the sacrifice of Christ was pre-

figured by all the types and symbols of the

Jewish age; and it was the heavenly light

streaming from Calvary, no less than the

glory of the law of God, that shed such a

radiance upon the face of Moses. That

divine illumination symbolized the glory of

the dispensation of which Moses was the

visible mediator, a representative of the one

true Intercessor."—Patriarchs

and Prophets,

page 330.

You need the Sabbath school

and the Sabbath school needs

you.

12.

How did God deal with His

chosen leader because of his disobe•

dient act? Num. 20:10-12; 27:12-14.

NOTE.—"Moses was not guilty of a great

crime, as men would view the matter; his

sin was one of common occurrence. The

psalmist says that 'he spake unadvisedly

with his lips.' Psalm 106:33. To human

judgment this may seem a light thing;

but if God dealt so severely with this sin in

His most faithful and honored servant, He

will not excuse it in others. The spirit of

self-exaltation, the disposition to censure

our brethren, is displeasing to God. Those

who indulge in these evils cast doubt upon

the work of God, and give the skeptical an

excuse for their unbelief. The more impor-

tant one's position, and the greater his in-

fluence, the greater is the necessity that he

should cultivate patience and humility."—

Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 420.

13.

How did Moses show his spirit

of submission to God's justice and re-

veal his own personal victory? Num.

27:15-23.

NOTE.—"He [Moses] knew that he must

die. Yet he had not for a moment faltered

in his care for Israel. He had faithfully

sought to prepare the congregation to

enter upon the promised inheritance. . . .

[ 22 ]

The work of Moses as leader of Israel was

ended. Still he forgot himself in his interest

for his people. . . .

"The severest trial was his separation

from the people of his care and love—the

people with whom his interest and his life

had so long been united. But he had learned

to trust in God, and with unquestioning

faith he committed himself and his people

to His love and

mercy."—Patriarchs and

Phophets,

pages 469-471.

14. How did God honor Moses at

the close of his life, and subsequent to

his death? Deut. 34:1-6, 10; Matt.

17:1-3; Heb. 3:1, 2; 11:24, 25. Com-

pare Jude 9.

NoTE.—"Upon the mount of transfigura-

tion Moses was present with Elijah, who

had been translated. They were sent as

bearers of light and glory from the Father

to His Son. And thus the prayer of Moses,

uttered so many centuries before, was at

last fulfilled. He stood upon 'the goodly

mountain,' within the heritage of his people,

bearing witness to Him in whom all the

promises to Israel centered. Such is the last

scene revealed to mortal vision in the his-

tory of that man so highly honored of

Heaven."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page

479.

Questions for Meditation

Do I consult my doubts and fears even

when I know the way of faith?

Would I have chosen Moses in his

youth as a potentially great leader?

Does my attitude toward my mistakes

lead me to continuous victory?

Lesson 7, for November 18, 1961

The Youth Who Wanted His Own Way

MEMORY VERSE:

"Rejoice,

young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee

in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight

of thine eyes: but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into

judgment." Eccl. 11:9.

STUDY HELPS:

"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 560-568; "The Seventh-day

Adventist Bible Commentary," on lesson texts; the "Seventh-day Adventist

Bible Dictionary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Sunday: Questions 1-4.



❑

Monday: Questions 5-7.



❑

Tuesday: Questions 8-10; begin

reading from Study Helps.



❑

Check Here

Wednesday: Questions 11-13.



❑

Thursday: Finish reading Study

Helps.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Samson Chosen as Israel's Deliverer

Reason for bondage. Judges 13:1.

Announcement of a deliverer.

Judges 13:2-5.

Anxiety of parents. Judges 13:8-14.

The promise fulfilled.

Judges 13:24, 25.

II. Spiritual Immaturity

Demand for a wife. Judges 14:1-3.

God's overruling purpose.

Judges 14:4.

The wedding feast. Judges 14:5-14.

[ 23

Ill. The Fruit of Self-Gratification

Trouble begins promptly.

Judges 14:15-18.

Revenge and loss. Judges 14:19, 20;

15:1, 2.

10.

Destruction. Judges 15:3-8.

IV. The Tragic Finale

11.

Israel deserts its leader.

Judges 15:9-16.

12.

The deceitfulness of sin. Judges 16:

1-5, 16, 17, 20, last sentence.

13.

Capture, mockery, and death.

Judges 16:21-31.

THE LESSON

Introduction

One of the saddest examples in all the

Bible of failure to achieve God's purposes

is the tragic story of Samson. Before he was

born, Christ Himself personally visited Sam-

son's parents. (See

The Seventh-day Ad-

ventist Bible Commentary,

Ellen G. White

Comments, on Judges 13:2-23, vol. 2, p.

1006.)

"God's providential care had been over

Samson, that he might be prepared to ac-

complish the work which he was called to

do. At the very outset of life he was sur-

rounded with favorable conditions for phys-

ical strength, intellectual vigor, and moral

purity. But under the influence of wicked

associates he let go that hold upon God

which is man's only safeguard, and he was

swept away by the tide of evil. Those who

in the way of duty are brought into trial

may be sure that God will preserve them;

but if men willfully place themselves under

the power of temptation, they will fall,

sooner or

later."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 568.

Samson might have won a great personal

and national victory, bringing glory and

honor to God's name; instead, he fulfilled

his mission finally in "defeat, bondage, and

death."—Ibid., p. 567. The story of the

youth who had great physical strength, but

chose his own way and thus dwarfed his

soul, remains forever a poignant revelation

of the love of God that will not force the

good way of life upon one who persists in

choosing the way of many sorrows.

Samson Chosen as

Israel's Deliverer

1. What was the cause of Israel's

forty-year bondage to the Philistines?

Judges 13:1.

NOTE.—"As His people returned to their

evil ways, the Lord permitted them to be

still oppressed by their powerful enemies,

the Philistines. For many years they were

constantly harassed, and at times com-

pletely subjugated, by this cruel and war-

like nation. They had mingled with these

idolaters, uniting with them in pleasure and

in worship, until they seemed to be one

with them in spirit and interest. Then these

professed friends of Israel became their

bitterest enemies, and sought by every

means to accomplish their destruction."—

Patriarchs and Prophets,

pages 558, 559.

Through whom did God prom-

ise to begin to deliver His people?

What was to be the symbol of the

deliverer's dedication? Judges 13:2-5.

NOTE.—"A person under the Nazirite vow

was not to cut his hair during the time of

the vow. When the vow expired, he was to

cut off all his hair and present it at the

tabernacle (Num. 6:18). The unshorn hair

of the Nazirite was the visible token of his

consecration, reminding both himself and

the people of the sacred vows he had as-

sumed. The long hair was thus the mark of

the Nazirite as the linen garment was of the

Levite."—The

Seventh-day Adventist Bible

Commentary,

on Judges 13:5.

What revealed the attitude of

the parents-to-be? Judges 13:8-14.

NoTE.—"The inquiry of every father and

mother should be, 'What shall we do unto

the child that shall be born unto us?' The

effect of prenatal influences has been by

many lightly regarded; but the instruction

[ 24 ]

sent from heaven to those Hebrew parents,

and twice repeated in the most explicit and

solemn manner, shows how this matter is

looked upon by our Creator.

"And it was not enough that the prom-

ised child should receive a good legacy from

the parents. This must be followed by care-

ful training and the formation of right hab-

its. God directed that the future judge and

deliverer of Israel should be trained to strict

temperance from infancy. He was to be a

Nazarite from his birth, thus being placed

under a perpetual prohibition against the

use of wine or strong drink. The lessons of

temperance, self-denial, and self-control are

to be taught to children even from baby-

hood."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

pages 561,

562.

What evidences of the child's

calling were early seen? Judges 13:

24, 25.

Spiritual Immaturity

During his youth what attitude

revealed Samson's lack of spiritual

growth? How did he show a petulant

desire to please himself? Judges 14:

1-3.

NOTE.—"Had Samson obeyed the divine

commands as faithfully as his parents had

done, his would have been a nobler and

happier destiny. But association with idola-

ters corrupted him. . . . Thus in his youth

intimacies sprang up, the influence of which

darkened his whole life. . . .

"Just as he was entering upon manhood,

the time when he must execute his divine

mission—the time above all others when he

should have been true to God—Samson

connected himself with the enemies of Is-

rael. He did not ask whether he could better

glorify God when united with the object of

his choice, or whether he was placing him-

self in a position where he could not fulfill

the purpose to be accomplished by his life.

To all who seek first to honor Him, God

has promised wisdom ; but there is no

promise to those who are bent upon self-

pleasing."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

pages

562, 563.

How many Branch Sabbath

Schools does your Sabbath

school operate?

How did God overrule Samson's

disobedience? Judges 14:4.

NOTE.—"An

occasion.

Literally, 'a meet-

ing,' that is, perhaps an opportunity to pro-

voke hostilities. It may be that Samson had

neglected to take up his life assignment

when the proper time came, and some

event was needed to stir him to activity.

God used the incidents connected with the

marriage as the 'occasion.'

"—The Seventh-

day Adventist Bible Commentary,

Judges 14:4.

Although it is evident that God can use

both good and bad people and deeds to

promote His purposes, we must ever re-

member that for our individual good and

happiness we must always follow the plain

instruction of the Lord.

"Unless you would have a home where

the shadows are never lifted, do not unite

yourself with one who is an enemy of God."

—Testimonies, vol.

5, p. 363.

At the wedding feast, what rid-

dle did Samson propose? Judges 14:

5-14.

The Fruit of Self-Gratification

How soon did marital troubles

begin, and what caused them? Judges

14:15-18.

NOTE.—"At his marriage feast Samson

was brought into familiar association with

those who hated the God of Israel. Who-

ever voluntarily enters into such relations

will feel it necessary to conform, to some

degree, to the habits and customs of his

companions. The time thus spent is worse

[2i

than wasted. Thoughts are entertained and

words are spoken that tend to break down

the strongholds of principle and to weaken

the citadel of the soul.

"The wife, to obtain whom Samson had

transgressed the command of God, proved

treacherous to her husband before the close

of the marriage

feast."—Patriarchs and

Prophets,

page 563.

What impulsive action did Sam-

son take, and what did he lose as a

result? Judges 14:19, 20; 15:1, 2.

NOTE.—"The experience of Samson indi-

cates that God does not immediately forsake

His servants when they fall into sin. He

may continue to bless their efforts, even

though they are living in conscious disre-

gard of some specific requirement of God.

Inasmuch as no one is without fault, God

would be unable to use human instru-

mentalities in His work, if He could bless

only the efforts of the sinless. Since this is

true, no one should interpret the blessings

of heaven as proof that God approves of all

his deeds."—The

Seventh-day Adventist

Bible Commentary,

on Judges 14:20.

10.

Upon learning that his wife

had been given to another, how did

Samson give vent to his anger? Judges

15:3-8.

The Tragic Finale

11.

Despite Samson's failure, what

victory did God grant him over the

Philistines? Judges 15:9-16.

12.

What action on Samson's part

led to the withdrawal of God's bless-

ing? Judges 16:1-5, 16, 17, 20, last

sentence.

NOTE.—"Samson had many times vio-

lated his Nazirite vow by partaking of wine

(PP 565) and by defiling himself in other

ways, but in it all, by keeping his long hair,

he indicated at least some interest in main-

taining his consecration for God's service.

There was no virtue in the hair itself, but

since it was a token of his loyalty to God,

its sacrifice to the whim of a lawless woman

caused God to withdraw the gift of super-

natural strength. God had borne long with

Samson's folly, but now that he had broken

the vow in every way, the Lord withdrew

His blessing and protection."—The

Seventh-

day Adventist Bible Commentary,

Judges 16:20.

13.

Upon the withdrawal of God's

blessing and protection, what tragic

events followed? What indicates Sam-

son's final repentance? Judges 16:

21-31.

NOTE.—"In suffering and humiliation, a

sport for the Philistines, Samson learned

more of his own weakness than he had ever

known before; and his afflictions led him to

repentance. . . .

"God's promise that through Samson he

would 'begin to deliver Israel out of the

hand of the Philistines' was fulfilled; but

how dark and terrible the record of that

life which might have been a praise to God

and a glory to the nation ! Had Samson

been true to his divine calling, the purpose

of God could have been accomplished in his

honor and exaltation. But he yielded to

temptation and proved untrue to his trust,

and his mission was fulfilled in defeat,

bondage, and

death."—Patriarchs and

Prophets,

pages 566, 567.

Questions for Meditation

Should Israel have marshaled behind

their chosen leader, regardless of his per-

sonal life? Might his life have been different

had they done so?

In what kind of circumstances did

Samson pray? Judges 15:18; 16:28.

Do I understand and practice the

prayer life, or do I pray most fervently

when I am in difficulty?

What is my spiritual development in

comparison with my age?

[26]

Lesson 8, for November 25, 1961

The Unforgettable Friendship

MEMORY VERSE:

"Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell

together in unity! It is like the precious ointment upon the head: . . . as the

dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion."

Ps. 133:1-3.

STUDY HELPS:

"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 637-659; "The Seventh-day

Adventist Bible Commentary," on lesson texts; the "Seventh-day Adventist

Bible Dictionary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check

Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Sunday: Questions 1-4.

Monday: Questions 5-9.

Tuesday: Questions 10-14.

Check Here

Wednesday: Begin reading Study

Helps.



❑

Thursday: Finish reading Study

Helps.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Two Heroic Youths

Jonathan's courage and reliance on

God. 1 Sam. 14:6, 23.

David's first anointing.

1 Sam. 16:1, 11-13.

Saul's love for David.

1 Sam. 16:18, 19, 21-23.

David's character. 1 Sam. 17:15-20,

26, 31, 32, 37, 45, 47, 50.

II. No Greater Love

Friendship begins in the king's

court. 1 Sam. 18:1, 3, 4.

Responsibilities and jealousy.

1 Sam. 18:2, 5, 7-9, 11-13.

David's behavior. 1 Sam. 18:14,

16, 18.

The plot to

kill and the plan to

save. 1 Sam. 19:1-3.

Jonathan's risk in David's behalf.'

1 Sam. 19:4-7.

Parting of the Ways

10.

A solemn covenant.

1 Sam. 20:1-3, 11-17.

11.

The king's wrath and warning.

1 Sam. 20:30-33, 42.

12.

David proves his worthiness.

1 Sam. 24:9-20; 26:7-11, 25.

13.

Last meeting with Jonathan.

1 Sam. 23:15-18.

14.

David's lament. 2 Sam. 1:11, 12,

19-27.

THE LESSON

Introduction

Friendship is one of heaven's greatest

blessings. Next to parents, no earthly in-

fluence upon one's life matches that of a

true friend. The classic story of David and

Jonathan reveals the basis of perfect friend-

ship. The intent of this lesson is to show the

lifelong influence of friendship formed be-

tween two kindred spirits under the guiding

hand of God. The choice of friends in one's

youth is a vitally important matter, but

two can love as did David and Jonathan

only when both love God first.

[ 27 ]

Two Heroic Youths



No Greater Love

In what incident is Jonathan's

courage and reliance upon God first

revealed? 1 Sam. 14:6, 23.

NOTE.—"Here

is a noteworthy example

of divine power co-operating with human

effort. Jonathan longed for deliverance from

the incursions of the Philistines. Events of

the day leave no doubt but that his aspira-

tion was born of the Holy Spirit. Jonathan

saw the impulsive fit of depression that

afflicted his father, but this only inspired

him with greater confidence in the divine

Ruler, who had called Saul in the first

place. With every advance step Jonathan

felt a surge of power, born of faith, that

strengthened him for the next. That day he

was proving Jehovah to be a covenant-

keeping God—One who was able to make

the wrath of man to praise Him."—The

Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,

on 1 Sam. 14:23.

To what responsible position

was David called? 1 Sam. 16:1, 11-13.

NOTE.—"The

great honor conferred upon

David did not serve to elate him. Notwith-

standing the high position which he was to

occupy, he quietly continued his employ-

ment, content to await the development of

the Lord's plans in His own time and way.

As humble and modest as before his

anointing, the shepherd boy returned to the

hills and watched and guarded his flocks as

tenderly as

ever."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 641.

Having heard of David's valor,

wisdom, and musical ability, what did

King Saul request? 1 Sam. 16:18, 19,

21-23.

Name the traits of David's char-

acter revealed in the following refer-

ences: 1 Sam. 17:15-20, 26, 31, 32, 37,

45, 47, 50.

How is the depth of love ex-

perienced by David and Jonathan ex-

pressed? 1 Sam. 18:1, 3, 4.

NOTE.—"Jonathan,

by birth heir to the

throne, yet knowing himself set aside by

the divine decree; to his rival the most

tender and faithful of friends, shielding

David's life at the peril of his own; stead-

fast at his father's side through the dark

days of his declining power, and at his

side falling at the last—the name of Jona-

than is treasured in heaven, and it stands

on earth a witness to the existence and the

power of unselfish

love."—Education,

page

157.

What honors were given David?

How was the tide of events turned,

and with what result? 1 Sam. 18:2, 5,

7-9, 11-13.

How did David react to the try-

ing and dangerous situation? 1 Sam.

18:14, 16, 18.

NOTE.—"Through

years of waiting and

peril, David learned to find in God his com-

fort, his support, his life. He learned that

only by God's power could he come to the

throne; only in His wisdom could he rule

wisely. It was through the training in the

school of hardship and sorrow that David

was able to make the record—though after-

wards marred with his great sin—that he

`executed judgment and justice unto all his

people.' 2 Sam.

8:15."—Education,

page

152.

What action did the king in

desperation take, and who stepped in

to help David? 1 Sam. 19:1-3.

NOTE.—"Adversity

proves the sincerity of

true friendship. Jonathan well knew that

David had no thought of usurping the

[ 28

throne, but was unable to convince Saul

of that fact. Jonathan's position was not

easy, for he would be in the role of op-

posing the desire of a tyrant, and would

be thought disloyal to his own father. How-

ever, as a true friend, Jonathan told David

the truth about Saul, not to frighten, but

to forewarn and assure him of a' true

friend's allegiance. This was a real test for

Jonathan. Jonathan had to decide between

loyalty to his father and loyalty to David.

It was impossible longer to be loyal to

both. He demonstrated good judgment by

conducting himself in such a way as to

retain influence over his father and yet at

the same time save David from certain

death."—The

Seventh-day Adventist Bible

Commentary,

on 1 Sam. 19:3.

NHave you given your Birth-

day Thank Offering yet?

gin

What risk did Jonathan take to

save David? 1 Sam. 19:4-7.

NOTE.—"Bound to his friend by ties even

closer than those of blood relationship,

with a love 'passing the love of women'

(2 Sam. 1:26), and knowing the innermost

thoughts of David's heart, Jonathan was

ideally fitted to mediate between him and

Saul. In Jonathan's plea to his father,

respect for authority and strict regard for

principle were both manifested. As Saul's

son, he knew the arguments that would

have the most weight with the king—

David's victory over Goliath and his con-

tinued, loyal service to the king personally

on all occasions."—The

Seventh-day Ad-

ventist Bible Commentary,

on 1 Sam. 19:4.

Parting of the Ways

10.

In what conversation is David's

innocence and the steadfast love be-

tween the two friends made plain?

1 Sam. 20:1-3, 11-17.

11.

During an outburst of rage

what particular point, intended to

impress Jonathan, did Saul make?

What was Jonathan's reaction? 1 Sam.

20:30-33, 42.

NOTE—"It was Saul's determination to

maintain his dynasty, regardless of any

question of right or wrong. In pursuing

this course Israel's king was following the

example of neighboring kings who held

their thrones by force and fought and died

to maintain their dynasties. Saul was un-

willing to acknowledge God as the supreme

ruler of Israel."—The

Seventh-day Ad-

ventist Bible Commentary,

on 1 Sam. 20:31.

12.

On two occasions how did Da-

vid show his nobility of character,

and what admission did his actions

evoke from Saul? 1 Sam. 24:9-20;

26:7-11, 25.

13.

What took place at the last

recorded meeting between Jonathan

and David? 1 Sam. 23:15-18.

NOTE.—"At this time, when there were

so few bright spots in the path of David,

he was rejoiced to receive an unexpected

visit from Jonathan, who had learned the

place of his refuge. Precious were the

moments which these two friends passed

in each other's society. They related their

varied experiences, and Jonathan strength-

ened the heart of David, saying, 'Fear not:

for the hand of Saul my father shall not

find thee; and thou shalt be king over

Israel, and I shall be next unto thee; and

that also Saul my father knoweth.' As they

talked of the wonderful dealings of God

with David, the hunted fugitive was

greatly encouraged. 'And they two made a

covenant before the Lord: and David

abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to

his house.'

"—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 660.

14.

Upon news of Jonathan's tragic

death, how did David express his

grief? 2 Sam. 1:11, 12, 19-27.

r0.1EfOla

NOTE.—"In spite of Jonathan's friend-

ship with David, and Saul's rash attempts

at the life of his son, Jonathan had re-

mained with his father as a dutiful prince,

and was with him fighting the battles of the

realm when death overtook them both."—

The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commen-

tary,

on 2 Sam. 1:23.

"Passing the love of women.

By this

touching expression David showed the

depth and sincerity of Jonathan's love.

Jonathan suffered the loss of crown and

kingdom because of his love for David.

"True love consists in thinking of others,

caring for others, and doing for others.

Selfishness consists in requiring of others

what one is unwilling to do himself. To

Jonathan, the friendship of David meant

more than fame and fortune."—Ibid., on

2 Sam. 1:26.

Questions for Meditation

How well did Jonathan exemplify

loyalty to both parent and friend?

Have I learned how to give myself

truly in friendship?

Am I careful to choose my friends

from among those who love God above all?

How far would I go to help a friend

in need?

Lesson 9, for December 2, 1961

The Youth Who Dared to Be Different

MEMORY VERSE:

"Blessed be the name of God forever and ever: for wisdom and

might are His: . . . He giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them

that know understanding." Dan. 2:20, 21.

STUDY HELPS:

"Prophets and Kings," pages 479-502, 514-548; "The Seventh-day

Adventist Bible Commentary," on lesson texts; the "Seventh-day Adventist

Bible Dictionary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Sunday: Questions 1-4.



❑

Monday: Questions 5-8.



❑

Tuesday: Questions 9-11; begin

reading from Study Helps.



❑

Check Here

Wednesday: Questions 12-14; read

from Study Helps.

Thursday: Finish reading Study

Helps.

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Captivity Brings Problems

The conqueror. Dan. 1:1, 2.

The king's plan. Dan. 1:3-7.

Daniel's decision. Dan. 1:8-14.

His courage rewarded. Dan. 1:15-20.

II. In a King's Court

Dreams and distress.

Dan. 2:1-6, 10-13.

Daniel's faith. Dan. 2:16-23.

His public witnessing.

Dan. 2:27, 28, first part.

8. Rewards and remembrance.

Dan. 2 :46-49.

III. Adviser to Kings

9. Further interpretations.

Dan. 4:18, 24-28; 5:17, 22, 23, 30.

10. Greater honors. Dan. 6:1-3, 28.

11. Intrigue and condemnation.

Dan. 6:4, 13-16, 19-22, 25, 26.

IV. An Honored Servant

12. Prophetic revelation.

Dan. 7:1; 8:1; 9:3, 16-18.

13. Heavenly ambassador. Dan. 8:16;

9:21-23 ; 10:11, 12, 14, 18, 19, 21.

14. Message of hope.

Dan. 2:44; 7:27; 12:1-3.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"Daniel" and "dare" have been synonyms

through the ages since this young man of

God risked everything for integrity. From

a human viewpoint, surely it was no more

pleasant for Daniel to be different from all

those with whom he was associated than

such a course is for youth today. Moreover,

we can only imagine the pressure to con-

form in Daniel's particular situation. But

Daniel's behavior shows that he had a fine

discernment between right and wrong that

allowed no compromise.

He did not choose

his environment,

but he did choose to obey

God regardless of the consequences. He thus

became the timeless example of what God

can do for any youth when simple faith

holds the life steadfast for God. As Daniel's

unquestioning obedience led through fear-

ful trial to victory after victory, he was

being prepared to receive fullness of ability,

wisdom, and honor, all gifts of God to a

youth who chose His way.

Captivity Brings Problems

What circumstances brought

Daniel into captivity? Dan. 1:1, 2.

NoTE.—"Among those who maintained

their allegiance to God were Daniel and his

three companions—illustrious examples of

what men may become who unite with the

God of wisdom and power. From the com-

parative simplicity of their Jewish home,

these youth of royal line were taken to the

most magnificent of cities and into the court

of the world's greatest

monarch."—Prophets

and Kings,

page 480.

What special plan, affecting some

of the captives, did Nebuchadnezzar

devise? Dan. 1:3-7.

What decision did Daniel make,

and with what proposal did he meet

the opposition? Dan. 1:8-14.

NoTE.—"What if Daniel and his compan-

ions had made a compromise with those

heathen officers and had yielded to the pres-

sure of the occasion by eating and drinking

as was customary with the Babylonians?

That single instance of departure from prin-

ciple would have weakened their sense of

right and their abhorrence of wrong. In-

dulgence of appetite would have involved

the sacrifice of physical vigor, clearness of

intellect, and spiritual power. One wrong

step would probably have led to others,

until, their connection with Heaven being

severed, they would have been swept away

by temptation.

"God has said, 'Them that honor Me I

will honor' (1 Sam. 2:30). While Daniel

clung to his God with unwavering trust,

the Spirit of prophetic power came upon

him. While he was instructed of man in the

duties of court life, he was taught of God to

read the mysteries of future ages and to

present to coming generations, through fig-

ures and similitudes, the wonderful things

that would come to pass in the last days."

—The Sanctified Life,

1956 ed., pp. 23, 24.

How was Daniel's courage re-

warded? Dan. 1:15-20.

In a King's Court

What events caused the king to

decree the death of the wise men of

Babylon, including Daniel and his

companions? Dan. 2:1-6, 10-13.

NoTE.—"The Lord in His providence gave

Nebuchadnezzar this dream. God had a

message for the king of the Babylonian

realm. There were representatives in the

palaces of Nebuchadnezzar through whom

God could communicate a knowledge of

Himself. God is no respecter of men or of

nations. His object is to save as many as

are willing, of whatever tribe or nation. He

was as anxious to save the ancient Baby-

lonians as He was to save Israel."—The

Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,

on Dan. 2:1.

By what procedure did Daniel

again reveal his courage, faith, and

gratitude? Dan. 2: 16-23.

181]

NOTE.—"Together they sought for wis-

dom from the Source of light and knowl-

edge. Their faith was strong in the con-

sciousness that God had placed them where

they were, that they were doing His work

and meeting the demands of duty. In times

of perplexity and danger they had always

turned to Him for guidance and protection,

and He had proved an ever-present help.

Now with contrition of heart they sub-

mitted themselves anew to the Judge of the

earth, pleading that He would grant them

deliverance in this their time of special

need. And they did not plead in vain. The

God whom they had honored, now honored

them. The Spirit of the Lord rested upon

them, and to Daniel, 'in a night vision,'

was revealed the king's dream and its mean-

ing.

"Daniel's first act was to thank God for

the revelation given

him."—Prophets and

Kings,

pages 493, 494.

"Every day some portion of

the time should be appro-

priated to the study of the

lessons."—Counsels on Sab-

bath School Work,

page 53.

wo.rayararp_rorg

How did Daniel unreservedly

honor God before the king? Dan. 2:

27, 28, first part.

What was the king's reaction to

the interpretation of his dream? What

request did Daniel make for his

friends? Dan. 2:46-49.

NOTE.—"Nebuchadnezzar was himself a

man of superior intelligence and wisdom,

as his provision for the professional training

of court officials (ch. 1:3, 4) and his ability

to evaluate their 'wisdom and understand-

ing' (vs. 18-20) make clear. Imperfect as

was Nebuchadnezzar's concept of the true

God, he now had irrefutable proof that

Daniel's God was infinitely wiser than either

the wise men or the god's of Babylon.

Later experiences were to convince King

Nebuchadnezzar with respect to additional

attributes of the God of heaven.. .

"Daniel did not become intoxicated by

the great honors that had been conferred

upon him. He remembered his comrades.

They had shared in the prayer (v. 18) ;

they shared also in the reward."—The

Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,

on Dan. 2:47, 49.

Adviser to Kings

Under what other circumstances

did Daniel fearlessly interpret divine

messages to kings? Dan. 4:18, 24-28;

5:17, 22, 23, 30.

NoTE.—"Before that terror-stricken

throng, Daniel, unmoved by the promises

of the king, stood in the quiet dignity of a

servant of the Most High, not to speak

words of flattery, but to interpret a mes-

sage of

doom."—Prophets and Kings,

page

529.

10.

What was Darius's attitude to-

ward Daniel? Dan. 6:1-3, 28.

NOTE.—"This was not the first time that

royal observers had noticed a unique 'spirit'

in Daniel. . . . A brief acquaintance with

this elderly statesman, a survivor of the

golden age of imperial Babylonia, was suf-

ficient to convince Darius that Daniel

would be a wise choice as chief administra-

tor of the new empire and counselor of the

crown."—The

Seventh-day Adventist Bible

Commentary,

on Dan. 6:3.

11.

How did intrigue bring great

trial to Daniel and provide him

another opportunity to glorify God?

Dan. 6:4, 13-16, 19-22, 25, 26.

NoTa.—"From the story of Daniel's de-

liverance we may learn that in seasons of

trial and gloom God's children should be

just what they were when their prospects

were bright with hope and their surround-

[ 32 ]

ings all that they could desire. Daniel in

the lions' den was the same Daniel who

stood before the king as chief among the

ministers of state and as a prophet of the

Most High. A man whose heart is stayed

upon God will be the same in the hour of

his greatest trial as he is in prosperity, when

the light and favor of God and of man

beam upon him. Faith reaches to the un-

seen, and grasps eternal

realities."—Proph-

ets and Kings,

page 545.

An Honored Servant

12.

For what important role did

God choose Daniel? Dan. 7:1; 8:1;

9:3, 16-18.

NorE.—"Daniel, the prime minister of

the greatest of earthly kingdoms, was at the

same time a prophet of God, receiving the

light of heavenly inspiration. A man of like

passions as ourselves, the pen of inspiration

describes him as without fault. His busi-

ness transactions, when subjected to the

closest scrutiny of his enemies, were found

to be without one flaw. He was an example

of what every businessman may become

when his heart is converted and consecrated,

and when his motives are right in the sight

God."—Prophets and Kings,

page 546.

13.

Who was God's special mes-

senger to Daniel, and for what pur-

pose was he sent to Daniel? Dan. 8:16;

9:21-23; 10:11, 12, 14, 18, 19, 21.

NOTE.—"The words of the angel, 'I am

Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God'

[Luke 1:19], show that he holds a position

of high honor in the heavenly courts. When

he came with a message to Daniel, he said,

`There is none that holdeth with me in

these things, but Michael [Christ] your

Prince.' Dan. 10:21. Of Gabriel the Saviour

speaks in the Revelation, saying that 'He

sent and signified it by His angel unto His

servant John.' Rev. 1:1. And to John the

angel declared, 'I am a fellow servant with

thee and with thy brethren the prophets.'

Rev. 22:9, R.V. Wonderful thought—that

the angel who stands next in honor to the

Son of God is the one chosen to open the

purposes of God to sinful men."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 99.

14.

How did Daniel express the

glorious message of hope for all chil-

dren of God to the end of time? Dan.

2:44; 7:27; 12:1-3.

Questions for Meditation

Do I gain strength by consistently

basing my decisions on faith rather than

feeling, or do I weaken my character by

occasionally choosing the easy way?

Is it necessary to completely overcome

fear of consequences in order to fully obey

God?

How does wisdom differ from knowl-

edge? Does ability depend solely upon

heredity and environment, or are there

other factors?

Lesson 10, for December 9, 1961

From Persecutor to Apostle

MEMORY VERSE:

"For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor

principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height,

nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love

of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Rom. 8:38, 39.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Acts of the Apostles," pages 112-130; "The Seventh-day

Adventist Bible Commentary," on lesson texts; the "Seventh-day Adventist

Bible Dictionary."

[333

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Sunday: Questions 1-4.

❑

Monday: Questions 5-7; begin

reading from Study Helps.

❑

Tuesday: Questions 8-10.

❑

Check Here

Wednesday: Questions 11-13.



❑

Thursday: Finish reading Study

Helps.



❑

Friday: Review entire lesson.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. God's Wondrous Ways

The young religious zealot.

Acts 7:58-60; 8:1-3.

Saul is changed.

Acts 9:3-6, 9, 13-16.

His immediate response.

Acts 9:20, 22, 29.

His deliverance never forgotten.

1 Cor. 15:9; Gal. 1:13, 15, 16;

1 Tim. 1:13, 15.

II. High Lights of Paul's Christian

Career

5. Preached Christ on Mars' Hill.

Acts 17:22-31.

6. Miracles associated with Paul's

ministry. Acts 14:8-10.

7. Persecution and hardship. Rom. 8:

18; 2 Cor. 4:17; 11:24-28, 30;

12:7-10.

III. Paul Trains a Co-Worker

8. Timothy as Paul's "son in the

faith." Acts 16:1-5.

9. Training through responsibility.

Phil. 2:19; 1 Thess. 3:2;

1 Tim. 1:1-3.

10. The mantle of leadership.

1 Tim. 1:18, 19; 2:1-6; 4:13-16.

IV. Legacy to the World

11. Life in Christ. Gal. 2:20.

12. Christian philosophy. Rom. 8:1-4;

12:1, 2 ; 1 Cor. 13; Phil. 4:13.

13. Triumphant finality. 2 Tim. 4:7, 8.

THE LESSON

ings in the word of God! How many lives

have been remade by the Spirit of God

speaking through this man whose life was

hid in Christ ! Yet in his youth he was

anti-Christian, intent upon destruction of

the very faith for which he was soon to

give all his ability and at last to yield his

life. In our restudy of this dynamic Chris-

tian personality we may gain new faith,

courage, and determination as we today

press on toward "the high calling of God in

Christ Jesus."

God's Wondrous Ways

In connection with what event

is young Saul introduced? Acts 7:

58-60; 8:1-3.

What were the circumstances of

his conversion? Acts 9:3-6, 9, 13-16.

[ 34

Introduction

When we contemplate the conversion of

Saul, we can only exclaim, in Paul's own

words, that God's judgments are "un-

searchable" and "His ways past finding

out!" Rom. 11:33. The barriers to this

young man's heart were the most formi-

dable: brilliance, position, fame, and worst

of all, fanatical religious intolerance based

on sincerity. The youth whom God chose

to be the greatest exponent of the Christian

faith in the early church was probably

regarded by the believers as the topmost

"impossible." Yet God saw something that

the eyes of man are not quick to discern,

and this merciless youthful religious zealot

became the greatest preacher of all time,

except Christ. How many volumes have

been written based upon his epistles ! How

many sermons have found their strength

in his writings! How many times have cen-

turies of everyday life re-echoed his phras-

NoTE.—"In that hour of heavenly illu-

mination Saul's mind acted with remark-

able rapidity. The prophetic records of

Holy Writ were opened to his understand-

ing. He saw that the rejection of Jesus by

the Jews, His crucifixion, resurrection, and

ascension, had been foretold by the proph-

ets and proved Him to be the promised

Messiah. Stephen's sermon at the time of

his martyrdom was brought forcibly to

Saul's mind, and he realized that the martyr

had indeed beheld 'the glory of God,'

when he said, 'Behold, I see the heavens

opened, and the Son of man standing on the

right hand of God.' Acts 7:55, 56. The

priests had pronounced these words blas-

phemy, but Saul now knew them to be

truth."—The

Acts of the Apostles,

pages

115, 116.

To what work did God call Saul,

and with what result? Acts 9:20, 22,

29.

NOTE.—"Paul had formerly been known

as a zealous defender of the Jewish religion

and an untiring persecutor of the followers

of Jesus. Courageous, independent, per-

severing, his talents and training would

have enabled him to serve in almost any

capacity. He could reason with extraordi-

nary clearness, and by his withering sar-

casm could place an opponent in no

enviable light. And now the Jews saw this

young man of unusual promise united

with those whom he formerly persecuted,

and fearlessly preaching in the name of

Jesus."—The Acts of the Apostles,

page 124.

What expressions reveal that

Paul never forgot his past experience?

1 Cor. 15:9; Gal. 1:13, 15, 16; 1 Tim.

1:13, 15.

"Well, says one, the calls keep

coming to give to the cause.

am weary of giving. Are

you? Then let me ask, Are

you weary of receiving from

God's beneficent hand?"—

Counsels on Sabbath School

Work,

page 133.

In what besides his preaching

was the power of God manifested in

Paul's ministry? Acts 14:8-10.

How did Paul summarize the

hardships that befell him in the course

of his Christian ministry, and what

was his attitude toward them? Rom.

8:18; 2 Cor. 4:17; 11:24-28, 30; 12:

7-10.

NoTE.—"Ransomed by the sacrifice of

Christ, washed from sin in His blood, and

clothed in His righteousness, Paul has the

witness in himself that his soul is precious

in the sight of his Redeemer. His life is

hid with Christ in God, and he is persuaded

that He who has conquered death is able

to keep that which is committed to His

trust. His mind grasps the Saviour's prom-

ise, 'I will raise him up at the last day.'

John 6:40. His thoughts and hopes are

centered on the second coming of his Lord."

—The Acts of the Apostles,

pages 512, 513.

Paul Trains a Co-Worker

High lights of Paul's

Christian Career

5. What illustration do we have of

Paul's taking advantage of every

opportunity to preach Christ? Acts

17:22-31.

8. What youth joined Paul in his

ministry? Acts 16:1-5.

NOTE.—"It was

Lystra that Paul had

been stoned, yet we find him again on the

scene of his former danger. He was anxious

to see how those who through his labors

[35]

had accepted the gospel were enduring the

test of trial. He was not disappointed, for

he found that the Lystrian believers had

remained firm in the face of violent op-

position.

"Here Paul again met Timothy, who had

witnessed his sufferings at the close of his

first visit to Lystra, and upon whose mind

the impression then made had deepened

with the passing of time until he was con-

vinced that it was his duty to give himself

fully to the work of the ministry. His

heart was knit with the heart of Paul, and

he longed to share the apostle's labors by

assisting as the way might open."—The

Acts of the Apostles,

pages 202, 203.

What responsibilities did Paul

give Timothy, and how did Paul ex-

press his confidence in the young

man? Phil. 2:19; 1 Thess. 3:2; 1 Tim.

1:1-3.

10.

Review some of the counsel

given Timothy, whom Paul was train-

ing to wear the mantle of Christian

leadership. 1 Tim. 1:18, 19; 2:1-6;

4:13-16.

NOTE.—"Paul and Timothy were bound

together by an affection unusually deep

and strong. Since his conversion, Timothy

had shared Paul's labors and sufferings,

and the friendship between the two had

grown stronger, deeper, and more sacred,

until all that a son could be to a loved and

honored father, Timothy was to the aged,

toil-worn apostle."—The

Acts of the Apos-

tles,

pages 498, 499.

Legacy to the World

11.

In what language did Paul de-

scribe the life of victory in Christ?

Gal. 2:20.

12.

In what familiar passages of

Scripture did Paul give expression to

his Christian faith? Rom. 8:1-4; 12:1,

2; 1 Cor. 13; Phil. 4:13.

NOTE.—"The principles that guided Paul

in his Christian life and warfare should be

the guiding principles for Christians today.

For those who wish to refresh their mem-

ories and dedicate themselves anew to the

application of these principles in their own

lives, here is a further list of familiar gems

from the writings of the great apostle: Gal.

6:9; Eph. 3:20; Col. 3:1-3; 1 Thess. 5:21;

2 Tim. 2:19.

13.

With what ring of triumphant

finality did Paul express his own

faith? 2 Tim. 4:7, 8.

Questions for Meditation

Did Paul have any strength of char-

acter that is not possible for me?

Is sincerity always a safe guide in

human behavior?

How can repeated trials and continu-

ing joy be compatible in the Christian life?

How much did Paul "give up" when

he became a Christian?

Lesson 11, for December 16, 1961

The Prodigal and His Brother

MEMORY VERSE: "I

say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one

sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which

need no repentance." Luke

15:7.

STUDY HELPS:

"Christ's Object Lessons," pages 198-211 (chapter, "Lost,

and

Found"); "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on lesson texts; the

"Seventh-day Adventist Bible Dictionary."

[36]

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Sunday: Questions 1-3.

❑

Monday: Questions 4-6; begin read-

ing from Study Helps.

❑

Tuesday: Questions 7-9.

❑

Check Here

Wednesday: Questions 10-13.



❑

Thursday: Finish reading Study

Helps.



Friday: Review entire lesson.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. A Youth Chooses the Wrong Way

Parable answers an accusation.

Luke 15:2.

Younger son's request.

Luke 15:11-13.

Famine and awakening.

Luke 15:14-19.

II. Joy in the Prodigal's Return

The father's greeting. Luke 15:20.

True repentance. Luke 15:21.

Reason for rejoicing.

Luke 15:22-24.

III. The Elder Son

Elder son's inquiry. Luke 15:25-27.

Another kind of wastefulness.

Luke 15:28-30.

The father's reply. Luke 15:31, 32.

IV. The Christian Attitude

10.

Christ accused as "Friend of sin-

ners." Matt. 9:10-13 ; 11:19.

11.

Two classic examples.

Luke 7:37-48; John 8:1-7.

12.

The sinner's proper attitude.

Luke 18:9-14.

13.

Mission of the converted.

James 5:19, 20.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"This, perhaps the most famous of all the

parables of Jesus, consists of two parts.

The first part (vs. 11-24) emphasizes the

emotions of the father of the lost son, his

love for the boy, and his joy when the

prodigal returned. The second part (vs. 25-

32) is a rebuke to those who, like the elder

son, resented the father's love and joy. This

latter section was probably Christ's answer

to the murmuring of the scribes and Phar-

isees (see v. 2). Whereas the parables of

the Lost Sheep and the Lost Coin stress

God's part in the work of redemption, the

parable of the Lost Son emphasizes man's

part in responding to the love of God and

acting in harmony with it. The Jews had

completely misconstrued the nature of di-

vine love. . . . In the parable the younger

son represents the publicans and the sin-

ners, the older son, the scribes and the

Pharisees."-The

Seventh-day Adventist

Bible Commentary,

on Luke 15:11.

A Youth Chooses the Wrong Way

1. In the parable of the prodigal

son, what accusation did Christ an-

swer? Luke 15:2.

NOTE.

-"The

parables of the lost sheep,

the lost coin, and the prodigal son, bring

out in distinct lines God's pitying love for

those who are straying from Him. Although

they have turned away from God, He does

not leave them in their misery. He is full

of kindness and tender pity toward all who

are exposed to the temptations of the art-

ful foe.

"In the parable of the prodigal son is pre-

sented the Lord's dealing with those who

have once known the Father's love, but

who have allowed the tempter to lead them

captive at his

will."-Christ's Object Les-

sons,

page 198.

[37]

In the parable, what request did

the younger of two sons make of his

father? Upon receiving his inherit-

ance, what did he do? Luke 15:11-13.

NOTE.—"The Bible tells of men who

`professing themselves to be wise' became

fools' (Rom. 1:22) ; and this is the history

of the young man of the parable. The

wealth which he has selfishly claimed from

his father he squanders upon harlots. The

treasure of his young manhood is wasted.

The precious years of life, the strength of

intellect, the bright visions of youth, the

spiritual aspirations—all are consumed in

the fires of

lust."—Christ's Object Lessons,

pages 199, 200.

What circumstances brought

him to his senses, and what decision

did he make? Luke 15:14-19.

NOTE.—"What

picture here of the sin-

ner's state ! Although surrounded with the

blessings of His love, there is nothing that

the sinner, bent on self-indulgence and sin-

ful pleasure, desires so much as separation

from God. Like the ungrateful son, he

claims the good things of God as his by

right. He takes them as a matter of course,

and makes no return of gratitude, renders

no service of love. As Cain went out from

the presence of the Lord to seek his home;

as the prodigal wandered into the 'far

country,' so do sinners seek happiness in

forgetfulness of

God."—Christ's Object

Lessons,

page 200.

Joy in the Prodigal's Return

When he returned home, how

was he greeted? Luke 15:20.

NoTE.—"The father will permit no con-

temptuous eye to mock at his son's misery

and tatters. He takes from his own shoul-

ders the broad, rich mantle, and wraps it

around the son's wasted form, and the

youth sobs out his repentance, saying, 'Fa-

ther, I have sinned against heaven, and in

thy sight, and am no more worthy to be

called thy son' The father holds him close

to his side, and brings him home. No

opportunity is given him to ask a servant's

place. He is a son, who shall be honored

with the best the house affords, and whom

the waiting men and women shall respect

and

serve."—Christ's Object Lessons,

pages

203, 204.

What revealed the son's sincere

repentance? Luke 15:21.

How did the father further show

his joy, and what reason did he give

for his action? Luke 15:22-24.

NoTE.—"In his restless youth the prodi-

gal looked upon his father as stern and

severe. How different his conception of him

now So those who are deceived by Satan

look upon God as hard and exacting. They

regard Him as watching to denounce and

condemn, as unwilling to receive the sinner

so long as there is a legal excuse for not

helping him. His law they regard as a

restriction upon men's happiness, a burden-

some yoke from which they are glad to

escape. But he whose eyes have been opened

by the love of Christ will behold God as

full of compassion. He does not appear as a

tyrannical, relentless being, but as a father

longing to embrace his repenting son. The

sinner will exclaim with the psalmist, "Like

as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord

pitieth them that fear Him.' Ps. 103:13."—

Christ's Object Lessons,

page 204.

The Elder Son

Who arrived on the scene, and

what did he wish to know? Luke 15:

25-27.

NoTE.—"In the parable nothing more is

said directly concerning the younger son.

His restoration is now complete, and the

lesson of the parable in so far as he is

concerned—the gracious welcome Heaven

accords the returning and repentant sinner

—is clear. Thus far Jesus has justified His

friendly attitude toward 'publicans and sin-

ners.' . . The remainder of the parable

(vs. 25-32) deals with the attitude of the

Pharisees and scribes toward 'sinners,' . . .

[ 38 ]

as represented by the attitude of the elder

brother toward the younger. This part of

the parable was set forth as a rebuke to

these self-righteuos hypocrites for their

`murmuring' at the way Jesus treated the

outcasts of society."—The

Seventh-day Ad-

ventist Bible Commentary,

on Luke 15:25.

What complaint did the elder

brother lodge? Luke 15:28-30.

NoTE.—"This elder brother has not been

sharing in his father's anxiety and watching

for the one that was lost. He shares not,

therefore, in the father's joy at the wander-

er's return. The sounds of rejoicing kindle

no gladness in his heart. He inquires of a

servant the reason of the festivity, and the

answer excites his jealousy. He will not go

in to welcome his lost brother. The favor

shown the prodigal he regards as an in-

sult to himself."—Christ's

Object Lessons,

page 207.

What poignant reply did the fa-

ther make? Luke 15:31, 32.

NoTE.—"In the parable the father's re-

monstrance with the elder son was Heav-

en's tender appeal to the Pharisees. 'All

that I have is thine'—not as wages, but as

a gift. Like the prodigal, you can receive

it only as the unmerited bestowal of the

Father's love.

"Self-righteousness not only leads men

to misrepresent God, but makes them cold-

hearted and critical toward their brethren."

—Christ's Object Lessons,

pages 209, 210.

The Christian Attitude

10.

What did the Pharisees fail to

understand with respect to Christ's

mission? Matt. 9:10-13; 11:19.

NOTE.—"In stating the profound truth

of the purpose of His mission to earth

Christ revealed the hypocrisy and fallacy

of the Pharisees and their attitude toward

Christ's association with tax collectors. If

these men were such sinners as the Phari-

sees claimed, they must be in greater need

than other men. Were they not then the

very ones for whom Christ should put

forth His best efforts? He had come to

`save' men (Matt. 1:21), but if He were

able only to save those who were already

righteous, He could not be truly a Saviour.

The test of His mission as the Saviour of

men turned on the point of what He could

do for sinners."—The

Seventh-day Advent-

ist Bible Commentary,

on Mark 2:17.

"The Sabbath school should

be one of the greatest instru-

mentalities, and the most

effectual, in bringing souls

Christ."—Counsels on Sab-

bath School Work,

page 10.

11.

What two timeless examples

did Christ give to clarify His relation-

ship to sinners? Luke 7:37-48; John

8:1-7.

NoTE.—"It is not Christ's follower that,

with averted eyes, turns from the erring,

leaving them unhindered to pursue their

downward course. Those who are forward

in accusing others, and zealous in bringing

them to justice, are often in their own

lives more guilty than they. Men hate the

sinner, while they love the sin. Christ hates

the sin, but loves the sinner. This will be

the spirit of all who follow Him. Christian

love is slow to censure, quick to discern

penitence, ready to forgive, to encourage, to

set the wanderer in the path of holiness,

and to stay his feet therein."—The

Desire

of Ages,

page 462.

12.

How did Christ further illus-

trate the principle of true repentance?

Luke 18:9-14.

NoTE.—"Justified.

That is, accepted by

God and declared righteous before Him.

The Pharisee thought himself righteous

(see v. 9), but God did not think so. The

publican knew himself to be a sinner

(see v. 13), and this realization opened the

way for God to pronounce him sinless—

[39

]

a sinner justified by divine mercy. . . . It

was the attitudes of the two men toward

themselves and toward God that made the

difference."-The

Seventh-day Adventist Bi-

ble Commentary,

on Luke 18:14.

13. What obligation and privilege

is associated with belief in Christ?

James 5:19, 20.

Questions for Meditation

Am I ever guilty of squandering the

gifts of God?

Am I ever guilty of a self-righteous

attitude?

Why is it important to receive whole-

heartedly one who professes conversion?

Lesson 12, for December 23, 1961

A Youth Who Fulfilled His Mission

MEMORY VERSE:

"The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith,

Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." John 1:29.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Desire of Ages," pages 97-113, 178-182, 214-225; "The

Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on lesson texts; the "Seventh-day

Adventist Bible Dictionary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Sunday: Questions 1-3.



❑

Monday: Questions 4-8.



❑

Tuesday: Questions 9-12.



❑

Check Here

Wednesday: Read from Study Helps.

❑

Thursday: Read further from Study

Helps.



❑

Friday: Review entire lesson.



❑

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Birth and Childhood of

John the Baptist

Prophecies of John the Baptist's

appearance. Isa. 40:3; Mal. 4:5;

Luke 1:5-17.

His father prophesies.

Luke 1:67-70, 76-79.

His childhood environment.

Luke 1:80.

II. Message of John the Baptist

4. Where he began preaching.

Matt. 3:1; Mark 1:4.

Why he was great in the sight of

Heaven. Luke 1:14 ; Matt. 3:11, 12;

John 3:30.

Nature of his message.

Matt. 3:1, 2, 7-10.

"Behold the Lamb."

John 1:29, 35-37, 40, 41.

Results of his work.

Matt. 3:5, 6; Mark 1:5.

III. His Mission Completed

Baptism of Christ.

Matt. 3:13-15; Mark 1:9.

10.

Prison, doubts, accusation.

Matt. 11:2, 3.

11.

Christ's testimony.

Matt. 11:7-11, 14.

12.

End of a noble life. Matt. 14:1-10.

THE LESSON

The story of John the Baptist is an im-

pressive example of the ultimate in

self-discipline, unreserved dedication, and

complete acceptance of the will of God.

One spark of selfish desire cherished by

40 ]

Introduction

God chose a youth for the greatest task

ever assigned to a human being-intro-

ducing His Son as the Saviour of the world.

this chosen youth might have changed the

whole story. But it is evident that John

believed God does all things well, and he

thus made it possible for God to stamp him

as the greatest. Matt. 11:11;

The Desire of

Ages,

page 219. No higher honor in the

nature of his work or his personal status

could be bestowed upon a human being,

yet all this was given to one who lived

simply and was happy to serve in second

place.

Birth and Childhood of

John the Baptist

In what prophecies was the com-

ing of John the Baptist foretold? Isa.

40:3; Mal. 4:5; Luke 1:5-17.

NOTE.—"God had called the son of Zach-

arias to a great work, the greatest ever

committed to men."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 100.

Under inspiration what did

Zacharias declare concerning the mis-

sion of John the Baptist? Luke 1:

67-70, 76-79.

NOTE.—"The song of Zacharias is

priestly in tenor and appropriate to a son

of Aaron, as the song of Mary is regal

and appropriate to a daughter of David.

The phrases suggest that Zacharias had

spent the time preceding John's birth in

diligent study of what the prophets had

written of the Messiah and the work of

His forerunner."--The

Seventh-day Ad-

ventist Bible Commentary,

on Luke 1:67.

In what environment did John

the Baptist grow up? Luke 1:80. Com-

pare Matt. 3:4; Mark 1:6.

NOTE.—"In the natural order of things,

the son of Zacharias would have been edu-

cated for the priesthood. But the training

of the rabbinical schools would have un-

fitted him for his work. God did not send

him to the teachers of theology to learn how

to interpret the Scriptures. He called him

to the desert, that he might learn of na-

ture and nature's God. . . .

"But the life of John was not spent

in idleness, in ascetic gloom, or in selfish

isolation. From time to time he went forth

to mingle with men; and he was ever an

interested observer of what was passing in

the world. From his quiet retreat he

watched the unfolding of events. With

vision illuminated by the divine Spirit he

studied the characters of men, that he

might understand how to reach their hearts

with the message of heaven. The burden of

his mission was upon him. In solitude, by

meditation and prayer, he sought to gird

up his soul for the lifework before him."—

The Desire of Ages,

pages 101, 102.

Message of John the Baptist

Where did John begin his

preaching? Matt. 3:1; Mark 1:4.

NOTE.—"Amid discord and strife, a voice

was heard from the wilderness, a voice star-

tling and stern, yet full of hope: 'Repent

ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.'

With a new, strange power it moved the

people. Prophets had foretold the coming

of Christ as an event far in the future; but

here was an announcement that it was at

hand. John's singular appearance carried

the minds of his hearers back to the ancient

seers. In his manner and dress he resembled

the prophet Elijah. With the spirit and

power of Elijah he denounced the national

corruption, and rebuked the prevailing sins.

His words were plain, pointed, and con-

vincing. Many believed him to be one of

the prophets risen from the dead. The

whole nation was stirred. Multitudes

flocked to the wilderness."—The

Desire of

Ages,

page 104.

What principles of character

made John great in the estimation of

Heaven? Luke 1:14; Matt. 3:11, 12;

John 3:30.

NOTE.—"In the estimation of Heaven,

what is it that constitutes greatness? Not

that which the world accounts greatness;

not wealth, or rank, or noble descent, or

[ 41]

intellectual gifts, in themselves considered.

If intellectual greatness, apart from any

higher consideration, is worthy of honor,

then our homage is due to Satan, whose

intellectual power no man has ever equaled.

But when perverted to self-serving, the

greater the gift, the greater curse it becomes.

It is moral worth that God values. Love

and purity are the attributes He prizes

most. John was great in the sight of the

Lord, when, before the messengers from

the Sanhedrin, before the people, and be-

fore his own disciples, he refrained from

seeking honor for himself, but pointed all

to Jesus as the Promised One. His un-

selfish joy in the ministry of Christ pre-

sents the highest type of nobility ever

revealed in

man."—The Desire of Ages,

page 219.

What was the message preached

by John? Matt. 3:1, 2, 7-10.

NOTE.—"John proclaimed the coming of

the Messiah, and called the people to re-

pentance. As a symbol of cleansing from

sin, he baptized them in the waters of the

Jordan. Thus by a significant object lesson

he declared that those who claimed to be

the chosen people of God were defiled by

sin, and that without purification of heart

and life they could have no part in the

Messiah's kingdom."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 104.

To whom did John direct his

followers? What was an immediate

result of his testimony regarding

Christ? John 1:29, 35-37, 40, 41.

NoTE.—"John alone uses this designa-

tion for Christ, though Luke (Acts 8:32)

and Peter (1 Peter 1:19) have similar

comparisons (cf. Isa. 53:7). John the Bap-

tist introduced Jesus as 'the Lamb of God'

to John the evangelist (see on John 1:35,

36), and for the disciple this title must

have held deep significance. The figure,

which stresses Jesus' innocence and perfec-

tion of character, and thus the vicarious

nature of His sacrifice, . .. is reminiscent of

the paschal lamb of Egypt, which typified

deliverance from the bondage of sin. 'Christ

our Passover is sacrificed for us' (1 Cor.

5:7). By the figure of a lamb John identi-

fies the suffering Messiah as the one in

whom the sacrificial system of OT times

reaches reality and has meaning. In the

divine foreknowledge and purpose He was

`the Lamb slain from the foundation of the

world."—The

Seventh-day Adventist Bible

Commentary,

on John 1:29.

"After the tithe is set apart,

let gifts and offerings be ap-

portioned, 'as God hath pros-

pered'

you."—Counsels on

Sabbath School Work,

page

130.

What success attended John's

ministry? Matt. 3:5, 6; Mark 1:5.

NOTE.—"Princes and rabbis, soldiers,

publicans, and peasants came to hear the

prophet. For a time the solemn warning

from God alarmed them. Many were

brought to repentance, and received bap-

tism. Persons of all ranks submitted to the

requirement of the Baptist, in order to

participate in the kingdom he announced."

—The Desire of Ages,

page 105.

His Mission Completed

What particular honor came to

John, and how did he relate himself

to it? Matt. 3:13-15; Mark 1:9.

NOTE.—"How could he, a sinner, baptize

the Sinless One? And why should He who

needed no repentance submit to a rite that

was a confession of guilt to be washed

away? . . .

"Jesus did not receive baptism as a con-

fession of guilt on His own account. He

identified Himself with sinners, taking the

steps that we are to take, and doing the

work that we must do. His life of suffering

and patient endurance after His baptism

was also an example to

us."—The Desire

of Ages,

pages 110, 111.

[ 42 ]

10.

In prison, what question did

John ask? Matt. 11:2, 3.

NoTE.—"Like the Saviour's disciples,

John the Baptist did not understand the

nature of Christ's kingdom. He expected

Jesus to take the thi-one of David; and as

time passed, and the Saviour made no

claim to kingly authority, John became

perplexed and troubled. . .

"But the Baptist did not surrender his

faith in Christ. The memory of the voice

from heaven and the descending dove, the

spotless purity of Jesus, the power of the

Holy Spirit that had rested upon John as

he came into the Saviour's presence, and

the testimony of the prophetic scriptures—

all witnessed that Jesus of Nazareth was

the Promised One."—The

Desire of Ages,

pages 215, 216.

11.

What exalted testimony did

Christ

give

concerning John the Bap-

tist? Matt. 11:7-11, 14.

12.

His mission completed, how

did John's noble life end? Matt. 14:

1-10.

NOTE.—"Jesus did not interpose to de-

liver His servant. He knew that John would

beer the test. Gladly would the Saviour

have come to John, to brighten the dun-

geon with His own presence. But He was

not to place Himself in the hands of ene-

mies and imperil His own mission. Gladly

would He have delivered His faithful serv-

ant. But for the sake of thousands who in

after years must pass from prison to death,

John was to drink the cup of martyrdom.

As the followers of Jesus should languish

in lonely cells, or perish by the sword, the

rack, or the fagot, apparently forsaken by

God and man, what a stay to their hearts

would be the thought that John the Bap-

tist, to whose faithfulness Christ Himself

had borne witness, had passed through a

similar experience

!"—The Desire of Ages,

page 224.

Questions for Meditation

Was John as free to make his own

choices as anyone else?

Which influences have the most to do

with a child's character: the Spirit of God?

heredity? home training? general environ-

ment?

What is the best procedure when

doubt arises?

Is there anything I would not forsake,

if necessary, to follow Christ?

Lesson 13, for December 30, 1961

The Youth Who Redeemed the World

MEMORY VERSE: "I

shall see Him, but not now: I shall behold Him, but not nigh:

there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Scepter shall rise out of Israel."

Num. 24:17.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Desire of Ages," pages 68-74, 114-131, 298-314, 569-579,

741-764, 818-828 (chapters 7, 12, 13, 31, 63, 78, 79, 86); "The Seventh-day

Adventist Bible Commentary," on lesson texts; the "Seventh-day Adventist Bible

Dictionary."

DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD

Check Here

Sabbath afternoon: General survey.

❑

Sunday: Questions 1-3; begin read-

ing from Study Helps.

❑

Monday: Questions 4-8.

❑

Tuesday: Questions 9-12.

❑

Check Here

Wednesday: Questions 13, 14; read

from Study Helps.



❑

Thursday: Read further from Study

Helps.



❑

Friday: Review entire lesson.



❑

43 ]

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Early Recognition of Jesus' Mission

His life began in trial.

Matt. 2:12-14, 19-23.

Recognition by Simeon.

Luke 2:25-32.

The boy Christ understood His

mission. Luke 2:42-52.

II. A Life With Every Test and Problem

Three masterful temptations.

Matt. 4:1-4, 5-7, 8-11.

Hypocritical opposition.

Matt. 12:1, 2, 10, 14, 24.

Spiritual blindness. Matt. 13:15;

16:21, 22; 23:27, 28, 37, 38.

Man's woes. Matt. 8:2,

3, 5, 6, 13-17, 28, 32; 14:35, 36.

The supreme test.

Matt. 26:39, 42, 44; 27:46.

Ill. His

Way of Teaching

By parables. Matt. 13:34.

10.

By individual instruction.

John 3:1-21; 4:7-15.

11.

By preaching to groups.

Matt. 5:1-12.

12.

By training others. Matt. 10:1, 7, 8.

IV. His Final Triumph

13.

Previews of Christ's Kingship.

Matt. 17:1, 2, 5; 21:8-11.

14.

Victory over the cross and tomb.

John 19:30; Matt. 28:5, 6.

THE LESSON

sleeps was watching over His beloved Son.

He who had rained manna from heaven for

Israel and had fed Elijah in the time of

famine provided in a heathen land a refuge

for Mary and the Child Jesus. And through

the gifts of the Magi from a heathen coun-

try the Lord supplied the means for the

journey into Egypt and the sojourn in a

land of strangers."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 65.

When Jesus was dedicated in the

temple what recognition was given

Him, and by whom? Luke 2:25-32.

Introduction

"None will ever be called to perfect

Christian character under more unfavorable

circumstances than that of our Saviour. The

fact that Christ lived thirty years in Naza-

reth, from which many thought it a wonder

if any good thing could come, is a rebuke

to the youth who consider that their reli-

gious character must conform to circum-

stances. If the surroundings of youth are

unpleasant and positively bad, many make

this an excuse for not perfecting Chris-

tian character. The example of Christ would

rebuke the idea that His followers are de-

pendent upon place, fortune, or prosperity,

in order to live blameless lives. Christ would

teach them that their faithfulness would

make any place or position, where the provi-

dence of God called them, honorable, how-

ever

humble."—Messages to Young People,

page 79.

Early Recognition of Jesus' Mission

1. What trials came to the family

of Jesus in His infancy? Matt. 2:12-14,

19-23.

NOTE.—"Satan was bent on shutting out

the divine light from the world, and he

used his utmost cunning to destroy the

Saviour. But He who never slumbers nor

Nora.

—

"As Simeon

enters the temple, he

sees a family presenting their first-born son

before the priest. Their appearance bespeaks

poverty; but Simeon understands the

warnings of the Spirit, and he is deeply

impressed that the infant being presented

to the Lord is the Consolation of Israel,

the One he has longed to see. To the

astonished priest, Simeon appears like a

man enraptured. The child has been re-

turned to Mary, and he takes it in his arms

and presents it to God, while a joy that he

has never before felt enters his soul."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 55.

What experience revealed that as'

a boy Jesus understood His mission to

the world? Luke 2:42-52.

[44

]

NOTE.—"Since He gained knowledge as

we may do, His intimate acquaintance with

the Scriptures shows how diligently His

early years were given to the study of

God's word. And spread out before Him

was the great library of God's created

works. He who had made all things studied

the lessons which His own hand had writ-

ten in earth and sea and sky. .. . From His

earliest years He was possessed of one

purpose; He lived to bless others. For

this He found resources in nature."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 70.

Are you a soldier of the

cross,

Counting worldly gain but

loss?

Take your Bible, Sabbath

day,

That's the good old advent

way.

A Life With Every

Test

and Problem

4. Describe the three comprehen-

sive temptations that came to Jesus

after His baptism. Matt. 4:1-4, 5-7,

8-11.

NOTE.—"Not without a struggle could

Jesus listen in silence to the archdeceiver.

But the Son of God was not to prove His

divinity to Satan, or to explain the reason of

His humiliation. By conceding to the de-

mands of the rebel, nothing for the good

of man or the glory of God would be

gained. Had Christ complied with the sug-

gestion of the enemy, Satan would still

have said, Show me

sign that I may

believe you to be the Son of God. Evi-

dence would have been worthless to break

the power of rebellion in his heart. And

Christ was not to exercise divine power

for His own benefit. . . . Neither here nor

at any subsequent time in His earthly life

did He work a miracle in His own behalf.

His wonderful works were all for the good

of others."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 119.

What type of oppositon did Je-

sus meet repeatedly? Matt. 12:1, 2, 10,

14, 24.

NOTE.—"Many are deceived today in the

same way as were the Jews. Religious

teachers read the Bible in the light of their

own understanding and traditions; and the

people do not search the Scriptures for

themselves, and judge for themselves as to

what is truth; but they yield up their

judgment, and commit their souls to their

leaders. The preaching and teaching of His

word is one of the means that God has or-

dained for diffusing light; but we must

bring every man's teaching to the test of

Scripture. Whoever will prayerfully study

the Bible, desiring to know the truth, that

he may obey it, will receive divine enlight-

enment. He will understand the Scriptures.

`If any man willeth to do His will, he shall

know of the teaching.' John 7:17, R.V."—

The Desire of Ages,

page 459.

Mention others who shared the

spiritual blindness of the opponents

of Jesus. Matt. 13:15; 16:21, 22; 23:

27, 28, 37, 38.

What chain of events shows how

fully Jesus was identified with the

woes of mankind? Matt. 8:2, 3, 5,

6, 13-17, 28, 32; 14:35, 36.

NOTE.—"Physical disease, however ma-

lignant and deep-seated, was healed by the

power of Christ; but the disease of the soul

took a firmer hold upon those who closed

their eyes against the light. Leprosy and

palsy were not so terrible as bigotry and

unbelief."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 271.

As Jesus met the supreme test of

His life, what heart-rending cries as-

cended to the Father? Matt. 26:39, 42,

44; 27:46.

[ 45 3

NOTE.—"It is for thee that the Son of

God consents to bear this burden of guilt;

for thee He spoils the domain of death,

and opens the gates of Paradise. He who

stilled the angry waves and walked the

foam-capped billows, who made devils

tremble and disease flee, who opened blind

eyes and called forth the dead to life,—of-

fers Himself upon the cross as a sacrifice,

and this from love to thee. He, the Sin

Bearer, endures the wrath of divine justice,

and for thy sake becomes sin itself."—The

Desire of Ages,

pages 755, 756.

His Way of Teaching

To bring spiritual truth to the

hearts of His hearers, what method of

teaching did Jesus use? Matt. 13:34.

10.

Name two incidents that illus-

trate Jesus' attention to individual

needs. John 3:1-21; 4:7-15.

NOTE.—"Christ in His teaching dealt

with men individually. It was by personal

contact and association that He trained the

Twelve. It was in private, often to but one

listener, that He gave His most precious

instruction."—Education, page 231.

11.

What method of teaching did

Jesus employ in giving the Sermon on

the Mount? Matt. 5:1-12.

NOTE.—For a study of Christ's method

of preaching, it would be well to read

again the whole Sermon on the Mount as

contained in Matthew 5; 6; 7.

"Christ seldom gathered His disciples

alone to receive His words. He did not

choose for His audience those only who

knew the way of life. It was His work to

reach the multitudes who were in ignorance

and error. He gave His lessons of truth

where they could reach the darkened under-

standing. He Himself was the Truth, stand-

ing with girded loins and hands ever

outstretched to bless, and in words of warn-

ing, entreaty, and encouragement, seeking

to uplift all who would come unto Him.

"The Sermon on the Mount, though

given especially to the disciples, was spoken

in the hearing of the multitude."—The

De-

sire of Ages,

page 298.

12.

Explain how Jesus multiplied

His own efforts by training others.

Matt. 10:1, 7, 8.

NoTE.—"The apostles were members of

the family of Jesus, and they had ac-

companied Him as He traveled on foot

through Galilee. They had shared with Him

the toils and hardships that overtook them.

They had listened to His discourses, they

had walked and talked with the Son of

God, and from His daily instruction they

had learned how to work for the elevation

of humanity. . . . They taught what they

had learned of Jesus, and were every day

obtaining a rich experience. But they

needed also an experience in laboring alone.

They were still in need of much instruction,

great patience and tenderness. Now, while

He was personally with them, to point out

their errors, and counsel and correct them,

the Saviour sent them forth as His repre-

sentatives."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 349.

"With such an army of workers as our

youth, rightly trained, might furnish, how

soon the message of a crucified, risen, and

soon-coming Saviour might be carried to

the whole world

!"—Education,

page 271.

His Final Triumph

13.

By what two events were im-

portant truths concerning Christ's

coming kingdom illustrated? Matt.

17:1, 2, 5; 21:8-11.

NOTE.—"Jesus was clothed with the

light of heaven, as He will appear when He

shall come 'the second time without sin

unto salvation.' For He will come 'in the

glory of His Father with the holy angels.'

Heb. 9:28; Mark 8:38. The Saviour's

promise to the disciples was now fulfilled.

Upon the mount the future kingdom of

glory was represented in miniature,—

Christ the King, Moses a representative of

the risen saints, and Elijah of the trans-

lated ones,"—The

Desire of Ages,

page 422.

[ 46 ]

14. What three words uttered on

the cross marked the climax of Christ's

redemptive work on earth? With

what words did the angel announce

Christ's victory over death? John 19:

30; Matt. 28:5, 6.

NOTE.

-"To

the angels and unfallen

worlds the cry, 'It is finished,' had a deep

significance. It was for them as well as

for us that the great work of redemption

had been accomplished. They with us share

the fruits of Christ's victory."-The

De-

sire of Ages,

page 758.

Questions for Meditation

What evidence have I shown that I

really believe God's power can give me

every needed victory?

Do I really want to be like Jesus, or

am I more concerned about what others

think of me?

Is a youth, because he is young, less

accountable for his ways than others?

Do I fully understand that Heaven

offers to me every power upon which Christ

relied when He lived on the earth?

THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING

December 23, 1961, Far Eastern Division

The overflow from the Thirteenth Sabbath Offering this quarter has

been dedicated to three specific projects in the Far Eastern Division.

They are: an evangelistic center for the nearly 4,000,000 people in the

city of Djakarta, Indonesia; a Voice of Prophecy headquarters building

at Bangkok, Thailand; and buildings at the Ayer Manis Training

School in Sarawak, where national workers can be trained to carry the

gospel to the tribal peoples of North Borneo and Sarawak.

The Thirteenth Sabbath Offering has meant much to this division

over the years, for the overflow has helped to start many new projects

and to strengthen many that had already been started. Today the work

is going very rapidly in every part of this great mission field.

Let us make a real Christmas gift to missions by giving our Thir-

teenth Sabbath Offering on December 23.

LESSONS FOR THE FIRST QUARTER OF 1962

Sabbath school members who have failed to receive a senior

Lesson Quarterly

for the first quarter of 1962 will be helped by the following outline in studying the

first lesson. The title of the series is "The Christian and His Neighbors." The title

of the first lesson is, "The Members of the Godhead." The Memory Verse is John

14:9. The texts to be studied are:

Ques. 1. Matt. 28:19.

Ques. 2. 1 Peter 1:2.

Ques. 3. John 3:16; 2 Cor. 5:19.

Ques. 4. Acts 4:12 ; 1 Tim. 2:5; John 5:22 ;

Gal. 2:20.

Ques. 5. John 14:26; 2 Peter 1:21.



Ques. 10. Rom. 8:26, 27.

Ques. 11. 1 John 4:10, 11.

[ 47 ]

Ques.

John 5:19-23, 30,

31; 8:28,

14:10; 17:22.

Ques.

Col. 1:19; 2:9.

Ques.

Matt. 28:19.

Ques.

1 John 4:9.

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11,806,365

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